Jesus,
I come before you in the silence of this new day, but within me, there is often noise. So many questions, so much uncertainty that troubles me. Sometimes I feel like the people who surrounded you in the temple, and I, too, cry out to you from the depths of my soul.
“The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, ‘How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.'” (John 10:24)
Lord, forgive my impatience. Forgive me for expecting you to reveal yourself in my own way, according to my own rules.
Yet you are already answering me, not with thunderous words, but with your quiet and constant work in my life and in the world. Help me to open my eyes and heart to your works.
“Jesus answered, ‘I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me.” (John 10:25)
I no longer want to stand on the sidelines and doubt. I do not want to be among those who do not believe. Today, I choose to be your sheep.
Lord, I want to be your sheep
I choose to listen to You, to recognize Your voice among the thousands of others that call to me. I want to follow You, my Good Shepherd, for I know that You know me by name. I know it can be hard, and I am reminded that the solution to my inner conflicts always lies with You.
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27)
You do not force your way into my life. No, you stand at the door of my heart and knock gently. Today, I open it to you. Enter, Lord, and be with me.
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20)
No one will snatch me from your hand
What an incredible promise! Not just for today, but for eternity. When I am yours, I am safe. Not because of my own strength, but because of yours. Your hand holds me, and no force, no worry, no fear can tear me from this secure embrace.
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:28)
And this security is founded not only in you, Jesus, but in the Father himself, who is greater than all. Your unity with Him is the guarantee of my salvation.
“I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30)
Thank you, Lord, for this assurance. In this assurance, I begin this day.
Amen.
Amen 🙏