Devotion Booklets for Seasons of the Church Year Lent 2019 | Page 19

Tuesday, March 19, 2019
Choices
Luke 5:17-26
While living overseas, it was interesting to see how other people viewed Americans. The regular stories of
Americans’ lives were quite amusing to others. When the story broke about the airlines not allowing a pet
ostrich onto a flight as an emotional support animal, many could not believe this was even an issue. A common
tag line developed to describe such stories: “That sounds like a first world problem.”
There is no shame living where we do and enjoying the blessings God has given. But it doesn’t take long for
shame or worry or regret to show up wherever you live. For Americans, this can happen with the many decisions
we face.
We face decisions about careers, houses, spouse, cars, and so much more. The many choices can quickly give
way to doubt. “Did I make the right decision?” In fact, decision-making can become so crippling, there’s even
have a term for it - decidophobia.
It’s comforting to know that wherever we live, we have a God who deals with our worst problem and lovingly
concerns himself with all of our problems.
A group of good friends brought their paralyzed friend to the place where Jesus was teaching. They had hoped
he would heal their hurting friend. But Jesus started with the real problem and the bigger issue. He was not
addressing first world problems or third world problems. He was tackling that man’s and all humanity’s
problem. The first thing he said was, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”
This enraged those who were there. Jesus knew it and called them on it. “I just fixed the biggest problem this
man had. But so, there would no doubt, I am going to fix his physical, earthly problem too. Get up and walk.”
Doubts and regrets are crippling. Looking back, who knows if we made the right career choices, the right car
choices, the right whatever it happens to be choices. What we do know is that the Lord has taken care of
humanity’s problem. He has taken care of your problem. He will work all things out for your good, both here
and for eternity. Enjoy the physical, earthly blessings God provides. But keep your eye on the big picture which
lies ahead. Live at peace, for you are forgiven.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, I strive to do all things to your glory. When a choice is given, let me consider how this
will give you glory and show love to my fellow man. And in the end, when doubt comes, remind me that I am
forgiven in your sight. The greatest problem that I face you have already taken care of through your death and
resurrection. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
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