Day 1: Living in an Upside-Down Kingdom
Scripture: Luke 6:20-23
Reflection: Jesus calls us to live in a way that often seems contrary to the world’s values. In His Sermon on the Plain, He speaks of blessings that come from poverty, hunger, and persecution. These are not typically seen as blessings in our society, but Jesus teaches that true fulfillment and joy come from living according to God’s kingdom values.
Prayer: Lord, help me to embrace Your upside-down kingdom. Teach me to find joy and purpose in living for You, even when it goes against the world’s standards. Amen.
Day 2: Stewardship Over Self
Scripture: Luke 6:20, 24
Reflection: Jesus contrasts the blessedness of the poor with the woes of the rich. This isn’t about the amount of money we have, but about our heart’s attitude towards it. Are we using our resources for God’s glory, or are we focused on self-indulgence?
Prayer: Father, guide me in being a good steward of the resources You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to prioritize Your kingdom over my own desires. Amen.
Day 3: Contentment Over Comfort
Scripture: Luke 6:21, 25
Reflection: Jesus speaks of those who are hungry now being satisfied. This challenges us to find contentment in Him rather than in earthly comforts. True satisfaction comes from a relationship with God, not from material abundance.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to be content in all circumstances. Help me to seek satisfaction in You rather than in temporary comforts. Amen.
Day 4: Empathy Over Escape
Scripture: Luke 6:21, 25
Reflection: Jesus blesses those who weep now, promising that they will laugh. This calls us to engage with the pain and suffering in the world, rather than escaping into comfort. We are called to empathize with others and share the hope of Christ.
Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of empathy. Help me to see the needs around me and respond with Your love and compassion. Amen.
Day 5: Reward Over Reality
Scripture: Luke 6:22-23, 26
Reflection: Jesus tells us to rejoice when we are persecuted for His sake, for our reward is great in heaven. This perspective shifts our focus from earthly realities to eternal rewards. Living for Christ may bring challenges, but it also brings eternal joy.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, strengthen me to endure challenges for Your name’s sake. Help me to keep my eyes on the eternal reward and to rejoice in the hope of heaven. Amen.
