Devotion for Tuesday, October 24, 2023

“And every shipmaster and every passenger and sailor, and all who make their living by the sea, stood at a distance, and were crying out as they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What city is like the great city?’” (Revelation 18:17b-18)

I’ve sailed on a cruise and enjoyed it, but I often wonder if this verse does not specifically address, in part, the attitude of cruising.  During the pandemic, cruise ships were sitting idle and the money to run them was burning up at the dock.  Many lamented at not being able to continue living a carefree life.  The city is the symbol of those who think in these terms and do not think about the things of the Lord.

Lord, You have created us for Your purpose.  What makes us feel good only satisfies for a moment, so this cannot be the satisfaction itself.  There is something else that calls us forward.  Help me to see You, for I believe You are the something else for which we were created.  Lead me up and out of the vain pursuits of this life.  Its baubles and beads are pretty for a moment, but they distract.  Guide me into Your goodness and keep me there.

Lord Jesus, You came into this world with nothing and left the same way.  Or is that an illusion.  All authority and power are Yours and You came with the call to those who would believe to follow You.  One by one, and one day all, the faithful will stand before You and receive the inheritance of eternal life.  Lead me, Lord, so that I may be counted among the faithful.  Guide me in this life to live whole-heartedly for You.  Amen.