The Upper Room Devotional for 30th August 2023, Wednesday
The Upper Room Devotional for 30th August 2023, Wednesday Message by Andrew Gadd (England, United Kingdom)
TOPIC: The Whole Story
TODAY’S READING
Mark 14:27-31, 66-72
Peter remembered that Jesus had said to him, “Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. – Mark 14:72 (NRSVUE)
I recently read the autobiography of a now-departed saint, pastor, author, and international speaker. As I read, I was not only inspired by his successes but also impressed by his honesty about his failings. He acknowledged his many mistakes caused by inexperience, pride, or arrogance. Reviewing his life, he presented the bad as well as the good.
Peter denied Jesus three times despite having insisted that he would never do that. If I were Peter, I would have made sure that no one wrote down my failings. If I were to write the story of my life, it would be a sanitized, airbrushed masterpiece charting the highs of my association with Jesus and his ministry.
When people are honest about their fears and their failings, we can share in their journeys to a depth that is not possible if they present only the good parts of their lives. Vulnerability, sometimes considered a weakness, is actually a strength. Vulnerability is bravery. Authenticity is connection. I am immensely thankful that the Gospel writers captured the embarrassing failings of the disciples as well as their successes. In the Gospels we see the arguments, doubts, denials, and betrayals. In these accounts, we can see ourselves.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Lord Jesus, forgive our failings. Help us to be brave and vulnerable, strong and authentic, in your service. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
With God’s help I will be vulnerable, sharing my whole self with others.
PRAYER FOCUS
To be more authentic
The Upper Room Devotional for 30 August 2023 Message, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More.
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