Morning Devotional 100425 Just Come

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

October 4, 2025 

Hebrews 10:19-25

19 Brothers and sisters, we have confidence that we can enter the holy of holies by means of Jesus’ blood, 20 through a new and living way that he opened up for us through the curtain, which is his body, 21 and we have a great high priest over God’s house. 22 Therefore, let’s draw near with a genuine heart with the certainty that our faith gives us, since our hearts are sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies are washed with pure water. 23 Let’s hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, because the one who made the promises is reliable. 24 And let us consider each other carefully for the purpose of sparking love and good deeds. 25 Don’t stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near.

Good Morning! Celebrate God’s joy together!

God did not create us to be alone! Gathering together provides a space for us to support one another. Laughter and joy come more easily when we are with others. Even in our times of sorrow and tears, there is a type of joy that is difficult to explain. Joy in sharing liminal space with one another and God. Joy when we look into the eyes of someone who cares enough to be there with us. 

With the current technology, it is easy to stay home and worship in the comfort of our own homes. Livestreaming the service is a great tool and should be used when you are sick, away from home, or unable to attend for any reason. However, whenever possible, the benefits of public worship provide powerful moments as we share love, peace, hope, and joy together. 

We live in an era when many choose to be alone. This choice is sometimes driven by fear. The fear of germs, safety, or simply being with others is real when we consider illnesses that ravage our bodies and recent violence within the sanctity of sanctuaries. Other times, the choice is driven by convenience. 

Yes, it is easier to sit in your own chair, dressed in your comfy clothes, than to get up and come, but I promise that the effort needed is worth the benefits. God honestly doesn’t care what we wear or how our hair looks; God just wants us to come!

God knows our hearts and fears and still calls us to come, for we need human contact and for our senses to be engaged, so that we might fully immerse ourselves in worship. You can’t hug virtually, and it is awkward to sing along in your own quiet space than when surrounded by others. 

Come and worship with the body of believers! Come as you are! Your heart will be blessed! Just come!

Loving Lord, you bless us abundantly! Help us take time to gather and worship as a body of believers. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Joining in Christian fellowship revives our souls.

Just Come! Pastor Liz