Receiving

 February 25, 2023

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Have you ever received a gift or invitation to an event that you were surprised about? Maybe you didn’t feel “special enough”. Maybe the thought of accepting that invitation overwhelmed you in a way that stopped you in your tracks and made you consider your worthiness for such an invitation.

Jesus invites you this Lent season to intentionally focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection. It’s easy to think we are too busy to adjust our day to go deeper with the Lord in prayer, fasting, or reflective reading/journaling, but the Savior of the universe is inviting YOU to open the door of your heart a little wider and meet with your Lord a little longer. What if you accept this invitation and receive what He has to offer you?

Hebrews 4:16 says “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” WOW! That invitation deserves a “yes” R.S.V.P. especially as we consider Lent. Lent is a time to reflect and examine our lives and how we align with the self-sacrificing gospel. God promises grace and mercy as we approach His throne! Lord, may we not be those who John refers to in John 1:11 “He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him.” Rather, may we be those who John refers to that did receive him, “Yet to all who did receive Him, to all who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” Lord, as your children, may we receive that invitation to be close to you. May we trust that a growing and deepening relationship with you will prepare our hearts to receive the overflowing grace and mercy you offer us this Good Friday and Easter.

Prayer: Dear Lord, our Savior, and King, may we receive with open hands and open hearts your amazing love this season! We love you, Jesus, and we thank you for loving us! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

For the next three Sundays of Lent, we will pause from our devotionals and meditate on Bible verses that help us appreciate anew the gift of grace that is God’s love for us.