Sick of Religion? Week 8: Devotional Day 5

Sick of Religion? Week 8: Devotional Day 5

DAY 5 – Friday

Daily devotional

Read

Isaiah 56:6-8, Mark 11:17, Jeremiah 7:1-11

Ask

“A house of prayer for all nations”. This is both a reference back to Isaiah’s prophecy, and a reference forward to a future time when all nations of the world will worship together. In the “in between” times (now), one practical way we can become a house of prayer is to pray for our missions partners and those going on mission trips. Spend a moment praying for our Men’s Go Team leaving for Mexico May 16.

Reflect

“A house of prayer for all nations” speaks to God’s desire that all nations should become disciples, and that salvation is open to all who seek it. In this regard, any time the temple was being defiled, so was the message of salvation. When the sacrificial system broke down, so did the message of salvation. No wonder Jesus was angry—the work of the kingdom was being maligned.

We have the great privilege of participating with Christ in furthering the gospel. It begins in our own hearts, as we have compassion on the lost. It is furthered in our churches when we value the mission of the gospel—to make disciples. And it is carried into the world, as we, and our brothers and sisters in Christ, serve the nations for whom God’s church is a house of prayer.

As we pray for the nations, and serve within their borders, we become a “house of prayer” to them and for them. As you spend time praying with your LifeGroup for our mission partners at Chapel Hill, consider how you might connect with the people for whom you are praying. Set aside a regular time to pray for them, and ask God how you might come alongside their ministry.