TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Elder Chris Beltran

Several centuries ago, a wealthy nobleman at a mountain village in Europe wondered what legacy he should leave for his townspeople. He decided to build them a Church. No one was permitted to see the plans or the interior until it was finished.

During its grand opening, the townspeople gathered and marveled at the beauty of the new church building. It was a masterpiece. However, someone noticed something and said, “Wait a minute! Where are the lamps? It is quite dark in here. How will the Church be lighted?” The nobleman gave each family a lamp and said, “Each time you are here, the place where you are seated will be lit. This is to remind you whenever you fail to come to Church, some part of God’s house will be dark.”

Many churches have lost their calling. Rather than bringing the lost to the Savior, they are too busy with their programs and activities. Comparing themselves with other churches and exalting themselves rather than the risen Savior. Today, many churches are like social clubs, meeting once a week, socializing and catching up with each other, that the main thing is no longer the main thing—go and make disciples of all nations. Many no longer have the light—no compassion for less fortunate or lost souls; no burden to bring the lost to Jesus. The salt loses its taste, and the light turns into darkness.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the light You’ve brought into our lives through Jesus. As we read Your Word, remind us to shine our light before others, leading them to Your glory. We lift our churches before You. Please help us stay true to our calling, focusing on making disciples. Forgive our distractions and renew our hearts. Use us to bring the lost to Jesus. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.