When the text shouts!
by Jo Corney
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand (Galatians 6:11)!
Read Galatians 6:11–18
What jumps out to you when you read Scripture? I find it changes most times I read the section. I find it helpful that my attention is caught by different parts of the Holy Scripture as I read. I’m grateful for this, as what comes forth to me is usually of help – perhaps comfort, direction, loving discipline, inspiration, confirmation or encouragement. My experience is that reading the words of Scripture is overall for my lasting good.
There were many points in this reading that I have mused over in preparation to share some reflections. The vibe I sense from the reading is that Paul was pretty fed up with the Galatians and the ongoing detour related to the need (or not) for circumcision – that knowing Jesus wasn’t sufficient! Paul is clear that it is the experience we have of being made a new creation in knowing Jesus as Lord of our life that is the point. He is loud about this – this could be the origin of using capslock to yell in email or text! Paul puts his volume into his words by saying, ‘See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand’. He really wants to make the points, be heard, and impress this content so it doesn’t have to be dealt with again – no more detours on this point. He wants to open up the freed path that is the journey of growing in love, experience, knowledge and devotion in life with Christ.
Friend, we believe and know it is God’s grace that allows our restored relationship with him for eternity, through his reaching to us in his complete love through Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection – grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone. What a help and blessing it is to have the words of Scripture call to us – depending on our space, whether they call loudly or gently – may we find them to ever be for our overall good.
God of grace and love, thank you for making the way for us to be in a restored relationship with you forever. As we approach Christmas, may we be renewed in our hearts by your grace, love and all that the gift of your Son to humankind gives to us. In the name of Christ, we pray, Amen.
Jo Corney is an active member of the LCANZ in Queensland. She has served over many years in voluntary parish pastoral care, ministry and development and representative roles. Over recent years she has been privileged to serve in the delivery of chaplaincy for Lutheran Services.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
