Advent Devotional - 2021

The author describes the disciples, in this passage, as being hard-hearted, not understanding Jesus message, not understanding how an entire crowd could be fed with just five loaves and two fishes, not understanding who Jesus was and how he could walk on water, and instead reacting with fear and more questions. The translator of The Message says that "it had not as yet penetrated their heart."

I confess that I have also not yet allowed God and His message of love to fully penetrate my heart. Oh - I believe - in my head. I think, I discern, I discuss, I question, I learn. For the most part, I fear I have a "brain faith." But that faith does not dispel fear. The door to my heart is ajar, but I am sometimes fearful of opening it fully, welcoming it, allowing God to fully dwell within. Maybe it is fear of losing control. But I don't need an "aha" moment or some emotional experience. I just want to have a heart filled with love that I can then more fully share it with others.

My prayer?

Into my heart, into my heart

Come into my heart Lord Jesus

Come in today, come in to stay

Come in to my heart, Lord Jesus.