If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week, we focus on the word “salvation”. A thief on the cross called to Jesus, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42) Jesus replied with a word of salvation, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Invitation Prayer
Lord, I have a one word prayer today: Help! You are the Savior of those in desperation. What else can I say? I cannot get out of this. I have no answers. I don’t know what to do, even in the next moment. All I have is a child’s call: Help! Amen.
Confession
O God of salvation, have mercy on me, according to your steadfast love.
At discouragement, I lose heart. Give me patience and a steadfast heart.
At success, I want more. Give me gratitude and contentment.
At pain, I flee. Give me courage and fortitude.
At temptation, I give in. Give me faithful endurance.
At criticism, I get angry. Give me humility and growth.
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love.
Word: Psalm 51:12
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation.”
Meditation
If you have been a Christian for years, or a lifetime, you may take the “joy of salvation” for granted. We begin to see God’s greatness as familiar and routine. Our worship may become heartless, empty motion. With the Psalmist, we call upon God to draw us out of the rut. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation.”
I recently discovered that the word restaurant is related to the word “restore.” It means “that which restores.” Restaurant was first used in France in the 1700’s described places where you could by food and be restored.
“Restore” – Lord, give us new eyes, as on the day we first saw your salvation. “Joy” – Lord, fill us with genuine exuberance at your mighty power to save. We cannot manufacture joy from our own best intentions. It is imparted by God, the only One who restores. Have you taken salvation for granted? Pray this verse throughout the day today. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation.”
Source of all joy, impart that joy to me today. Overwhelm any sadness or boredom in me and restore the joy of salvation. Amen.
Sending Word
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (II Peter 3:18)
*Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com