Daily Reading
Reflection
One of the most difficult realities of the Christian life is that suffering is inevitable. In fact, throughout Church history, many Christians have sought opportunities to inconvenience themselves for the sake of the Kingdom, and to become more like the suffering servant, Jesus.
Yet we're not supposed to enjoy suffering. In fact, the Bible expects us to groan (Rom. 7) and lament (Rev. 6) for the return of Jesus and end of suffering. But this passage reminds us that suffering is not pointless. In the furnace of suffering, we are refined. Character and hope is produced. It is not produced by a stoic embrace of trouble, but through an honest engagement in the world and with God in the midst of our sufferings. The Christian life will be filled with both joy and tears. In the wilderness of our sufferings, God makes something new out of us. This is why St. Paul can say that he rejoices in suffering.
God of my sufferings, as I face the hardships of life for the sake of your Kingdom, do not retreat. Produce something deeper and better in me. Fill me more fully with your Spirit. Make me more like Christ. And, perhaps even allow me to rejoice. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Daily Worship Resources
Daily Office Readings come from the Book of Common Prayer, a schedule of daily Bible reading that accords with the Church year. These readings are great worship resources for personal, family, or group use. Use it along with your City Church Worship Folder as a resource for readings, prayers, and hymns.
Printable Devotion