30 Days Of Prayer: Move in Closer

DAY 9: TUESDAY, APRIL 21
Move in Closer

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

This verse is just magical. Jesus Christ, residing in perfect comfort and luxury, saw our pain and poverty and was compelled to move in closer. As humans, our instinct is to run away from distress, weakness, and decay. We crave comfort, safety, and strength. But when Jesus came to Earth, he literally wrapped himself in the vulnerable, decaying flesh of the population he loved so dearly. He saw our mess, and he pressed into it.

Ephesians 4:22-24 tells us as believers to “put off” our old selves—the selves that crave comfort. We are told to “put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” We are to look around and see the vulnerable: the ones who cannot speak up for themselves, who have not been given our privilege and advantage. Then move in closer and serve.

We can put on blinders to the vulnerable people around us—widows, orphans, those in foster care type situations and the homeless—allowing comfort to reign. Or, we can choose to live as Jesus did—turning toward, not away. It’s never simple, often painful, and eternally worth it.

Prayer:
Jesus, you love me so well, so completely. Thank you for seeing my darkness and running into it – not away. Help me to remember your sacrifice. Help me to remember why it is good and holy to press into the mess. Help me to serve those others might overlook simply because the pain appears too great. Draw near to the vulnerable.

For Reflection:
Where do you see vulnerability in your community? Your country? The world? Whose neighborhood do you need to move into?