[Dailydevo] Daily Devotion Tuesday November 1, 2005

[Barry Ludwig]

Daily Devotions Tuesday November 1, 2005

This week's devotions are offered by Pastor Ludwig. The focus this week is
upon the simple but elusive idea of "joy."

 

Luke 15:7

[Jesus said], "Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over
one sinner  who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no
repentance."

 

On the day of my ordination, a group of pastors gathered around me in a
circle as I knelt at the altar and laid their hands upon me in prayer and
blessing. It was a moment of awesome-fear and yet great joy. I shall never
forget the power of that moment. It has continued to bring me strength and
joy in ministry especially in those times that were filled with self-doubt
and frustration. After the service, one of the older pastors came up to me
with a serious smile and said, "Today you have given joy to the angels of
heaven." I was taken aback that somehow I might bring joy to the angels and
yes, even God.

 

Luke records Jesus saying that there is rejoicing in heaven over us when we
recognize our need for God's strength and forgiveness and when we rediscover
that God does not seek to punish us for our sins but desires to wipe away
our shame and guide us back to wholeness. Join me again this day in asking
for God's forgiveness, receiving His love and watching the angels dance for
joy.

 

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