Lent Day 26

The Apostle Paul exhorted the Corinthian church to be courageous and strong. That includes being alert and standing firm in the faith. The Greek word translated as ‘be alert’ is grēgoreō. Its natural meaning is to be awake or watchful. The word is often used to describe the work of prison guards. They needed to be awake, not sleeping on the job, to ensure prisoners didn’t escape. Christian courage is coupled with alertness, watching to ensure nothing compromises our faith. But, we are also to be watchful for opportunities. If you’re not watchful for opportunities to bless those in need, to take action for the sake of justice, or to share the Gospel, you surely will miss out on many opportunities for the ministry God is placing before you. Another way to say that is you will not have opportunities to express your courage if you are not alert, watchful, and present as you go about your day’s work.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, make us watchful. Give us eyes to see the opportunities around us to accomplish your work and purposes. And in those moments, give us the courage and the ability to enact justice, to be generous, and to share the hope of the Gospel with others. Amen.