Tuesday, January 30

Testimony

Narrative Lectionary Daily Devotions written by Kace Leetch from Clergy Stuff.

John is still speaking with followers and seekers in the wilderness. They want to know if he is the Messiah, and if not, is Jesus? John's witness, his testimony is that Jesus is the one who comes from above, and the one whom God has sent into the world to proclaim justice and truth.

Ultimately, whether people come to believe in Jesus comes down to the testimonies of others -- in this case, John's. Our witness -- our stories -- are all we truly have. Proof is an illusion. But shared experience connects us and brings us to a place where faith becomes tangible and irresistible. When we share our truth, no one can argue with what we have experienced. Instead of a theological debate, we can engage in a conversation that connects us, that opens our minds and souls to the experiences of others, and that strengthens our faith. So share your stories. Share your experiences. Without judgment, without a spirit of debate or conquest. Just share. And then listen to the experiences of others. 

Narrative Lectionary Text: John 3:31-36

The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks about earthly things. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, yet no one accepts his testimony. Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true. He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. The Father loves the Son and has placed all things in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but must endure God’s wrath.