Opening Verse:
“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” – Colossians 3:2 (NKJV)
Introduction:
In the journey of faith, changing our perspective to align with God’s and striving to mirror Jesus in our actions is a transformative experience. Luke 17:34, in this context, symbolizes a spiritual awakening, where we become one with God through our Christ-like actions and thoughts.
“I tell you, in that night there will be two men in one bed: the one will be taken and the other will be left.” – Luke 17:34 (NKJV)
Devotional Story:
Jim, striving for success, often felt disconnected from his spiritual roots. Reading Luke 17:34, he was struck by the idea of being ‘taken’ – not in a physical sense, but as a spiritual awakening. He decided to shift his focus from worldly achievements to living like Jesus: loving, serving, and forgiving. This change brought him a profound sense of unity with God and an inner peace that surpassed all understanding.
Jim’s story is similar to the story of the Conversion of Saul (Paul) – Acts 9:1-19: Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, experienced a dramatic spiritual awakening on the road to Damascus. Blinded by a heavenly light and spoken to by Jesus, Saul’s life was transformed. He became Paul, a devoted follower of Christ, spreading the gospel with passion and humility. That day his worldly fleshly self was taken and he became a new creation through the power of God’s Amazing Grace & Love.
What This Means:
Luke 17:34 invites us to consider our readiness to align with God. By changing our perspective and emulating Jesus, we open ourselves to a deeper union with the Divine, experiencing a transformative oneness with God.
Think About This:
1. How can adopting the qualities of Jesus in your daily life bring you closer to God?
2. Reflect on areas of your life where a Christ-like perspective could bring transformation.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I seek to change my perspective to be more like Jesus. Help me to embody His love, humility, and compassion in my daily actions. May my life reflect a deep union with You, guided by Your wisdom and grace. Amen.
Closing Verse:
“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NKJV)