Daily Devotional for May 13

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May 13                                                           Luke 11:14-23

      "... the people marveled. But some of them said,
   'He cast out demons by Beelzebul' ...while others, to
       test him, sought from him a sign from heaven."

Such a diverse crowd it was that gathered around Christ and
the newly healed man! If you had been there, what would you
have done?

Would you have been able to discern the movement of "the
finger of God" and recognized divine healing when you saw
it? Would you have found the courage to voice your praise
despite hostility, scorn, and seedy plots?

Perhaps you would not have openly accused Jesus of devilish
tricks, but would have merely stood by watching the confron-
tation, silently relieved that the strange carpenter from
Nazareth was at last being held accountable for his actions.
You might have been amused. Anxious to see more "heavenly
wonders." Curious about Jesus' spiritual prowess and ability
to pass certain tests.

Spend some time reflecting on your own life and present
circumstances, and try to identify a specific area in which you
need a miracle of healing. Be aware of your cynicism, your
doubts, your temptation to test the power of God.

What would your healing look like? What would it take for
you to know that you had been touched by "the finger of
God"?

You might wish to illustrate with colored pens or modeling
clay. Pray your way through to the answers, relaxing under
the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Allow colors, words, forms,
and symbols to emerge. Await the moment when you will be
ready to add visual prayers of trust, marvel, and thanksgiving.

     Consider your own life and ambitions. Where do you
     strive to hold the reins of power and control? When
     do you feel most frustrated? Judgmental? Impotent?
     Competitive? Now reflect on the patience and
     presence of the resurrected Christ. Imagine the two
     of you sharing, friend to friend, over a pot of tea.
     Believe that Christ cares about the details of your
     story, and allow yourself the luxury of absolute
     honesty. Relax. Listen. Receive perfect respect, perfect
     understanding, perfect instruction, perfect love.

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From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C