Devoted
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42
Last week, my friend came into my office at church with a short message for me before she left for the Phillies game. She looked cute in her Phillies shirt and jewelry. I was thinking about how sunny and hot it was, while she was only excited about the game – rush hour traffic and 85-degree weather did not matter at all! I saw what a deeply devoted fan looks like.
As the group of first-century, new believers in Jesus were being formed, they turned their lives in a new direction. They devoted themselves to following the way of Jesus. The word devoted carries with it the idea of being glued to something, unable to be pulled apart.
When we are devoted, we aren’t looking for the path of least resistance. When times get tough, we cling to the Lord, the Word that reveals His love for us, His working through us to transform us into a beautiful reflection of Jesus Christ. We stay connected with fellow believers to be supported and encouraged in faith.
The early church shows us something very important about human nature - what we are devoted to forms our lives, shapes our thinking, and deepens patterns of life and friendship.
God, You have promised to always be with us. When life is difficult, strengthen our faith. Surround us with faithful friends. Continue to inspire us by Your devotion to us. May our devotion to You, through Jesus Christ, grow deeper and deeper. Amen.