Daily Devotions and Bible Readings
The Mark of Disciple of Jesus Christ
John 13:34-45
Memory Verse: But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
The weather was cold and the open roof of the football stadium offered little relief from the howling wind. Forced fan heaters drew crowds of players as they tried to protect their hands and noses from frost bite. As the camera surveyed the crowd, those watching on TV identified a few men as either die hard fans or idiots. These men had taken their shirts off and painted the colors and initials of their favorite team on their chest. Some would say they bore the marks of true fans or team disciples. Several years ago I took a trip from the rural Texas Panhandle to Kansas City, Missouri. On Sunday morning I went to a restaurant across the street from my accommodations. I could not believe the sea of red shirts. Kansas City Chief fans were wearing the marks of their discipleship.
Christians sometimes wear T shirts with Scripture as a witness of their faith. The fish symbol has been used since the early days of the church as a signal to fellow believers of faith in Christ. Jesus taught His followers the true mark of a Christian is demonstrated love for others. The true mark of a believer is not faithful attendance to church. Although, true Christians will be faithful in church attendance in obedience to Hebrews 10:25 which tells us to assemble together. As a matter of fact, church attendance will be one demonstration of our love for others. But church attendance without encouraging and serving others is a further demonstration of selfishness rather than love. The true mark of a disciple of Jesus Christ is not the theological language they use or the songs they sing. The true mark of Christian discipleship is how we relate to and treat others. Let us love today in word and in deed.
Our teenagers will be returning from camp today. Pray for their safe return and for God to seal the commitments they have made. Remember to pray for your Life Group leadership and your church staff as they complete their preparations for services this week.
Reflection
What did God say to me from this Scripture reading, devotional, and or prayer time?
What did I say to God?
