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Devotional for today
BASIC SCRIPTURES: REVELATION 21:9-21; MARK 8: 37
Revelation 21:9-21 (NIV) 9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. 13 There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. 14 The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
Mark 8:37 (NIV) Or what can you give in exchange for your soul?
In Revelation 21:9-21, we catch a glimpse of the Holy City, Jerusalem, descending from heaven. This vision of the future is a testament to God’s ultimate plan of redemption and restoration. The city radiates with the glory of God, described with precious stones and gates bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. It’s a representation of the culmination of God’s promise—a dwelling place with Him where all things are made new.
FINISH READING ===> Our Daily Manna 8 September 2023
As we consider the grandeur of this city, we’re reminded that our lives are part of a larger narrative. We’re called to contribute to the building of God’s kingdom on Earth. Just as the foundations of the city bear the names of the apostles, we too have a role in sharing the Gospel and furthering the message of Christ. Every act of love, every moment of grace, and every instance of kindness becomes a brick in the construction of God’s heavenly kingdom.
This brings us to Mark 8:37, where Jesus asks, “What can you give in exchange for your soul?” This question serves as a powerful reminder of our priorities. In a world often driven by material gain and temporary pleasures, Jesus directs our attention to what truly matters—the state of our souls and our relationship with Him. When we invest our lives in the pursuits of God’s kingdom, we store up treasures that are imperishable and eternal.
So, as you journey through this day and the days to come, remember the vision of the Holy City, and ask yourself: What am I contributing to the building of God’s kingdom? What can I do today that aligns with the values of heaven? And in all things, seek to honor God and exchange the temporary for the eternal, remembering that your soul is of infinite worth in His eyes.
