As I was praying about themes for this year, and even more specifically about what should follow up our month of fasting and prayer, I had a clear impression of a word: devotion. This is an interesting word that I normally hear in Christian circles related to a time of prayer and Scripture reading – commonly called doing or having your devotions.

However, the concept of being devout or devoted is much more than a ritual. The first Sunday in February is one in which many people in the United States have what some might consider a devout experience – the Super Bowl. People will paint themselves and stir themselves into frenzied expressions of devotion towards “their” team.

However, a truly devoted fan will not give up on their team when they are struggling to just make the playoffs. We can see that here in Edmonton. No matter how the Oilers are doing, there are fans out there that will not give up on them. There is a firm belief that their team can be the one to bring home the trophy – it’ll just take some time and effort.

Devotion can be defined as, “the fact or state of being ardently dedicated and loyal.” (merriam-webster.com) People can find many things to be devoted to: spouse, family, friend, a cause, God, church, etc. In Paul’s letter to Titus (3:8,14) he tells Titus to instruct Christians to be devoted to doing good works. Paul is saying that they should set things in place before themselves so that they are diligent to look after them.

And so, devotions in the morning for a Christian could simply be a ritual or habit … or it could be the purposeful setting of something important before you at the start of the day so that what is important remains so throughout the day. What occupies your heart and mind throughout your days? How important are the important things? How devoted are we to God, God’s people and God’s mission? I believe these are fair and important questions to ask ourselves and allow the Holy Spirit to ask us. I know I am.

Journeying with you,

Pastor Merril