Photo of 21 Days of Prayer, Devotion 12, Luke 13:10-14:35

Noticing a woman, she acts odd, maybe homeless, maybe not. Her clothes don’t match, and she has many wrinkles, but her smile is open and inviting.

The man is coming into the church. His clothes are old and dirty. His hair is messy, and he has a sad look on his face. They are both searching. There are vacancies in their lives and souls that they don’t know how to fill. These are some of the marginalized people Christ spoke about in Luke 13.

The fullness of the verses in Luke 13:10 through 14:35 is available to teach and guide us in the earthly realm. We learn about the Lord’s power and love, strength, growth, and mercy. In many places in the Bible, the Lord chooses the humble, the outsiders, and those scorned by the world and uses them to glorify His kingdom.

Blessed are those who invite “the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind,” as Luke explains in chapter 14, verses 13 and 14. These people cannot repay kindness but need kindness more than your friend or brother. The Lord will bless you as you bless others.

As Christ explains, the path is narrow and not easy. We must prioritize the Lord in all aspects of our lives, striving to be a good example, praying, and calling upon His guidance. Through good times and bad, hardships and sacrifices, we dedicate our earthly walk to the Lord, striving to make our spiritual difference known to those around us.

Christ has compassion for all oppressed and marginalized people of the world. Like the woman mentioned before, everyone matters. Christ seeks out these folks and calls them to Himself. Like the man walking into the church, all are welcome.

Prayer Prompts:

  • Open my heart to be accepting of others. Allow me the honor of pointing them to You
  • Help me prioritize my relationship with You in my daily life so I will face these challenges with You by my side
  • Teach me to praise You during good times and bad, during peace and hardship, for You alone are worthy