Traveling Light: Day Two
Day 2: The Paradox of Grace
Devotional
There's a beautiful paradox at the heart of the Christian faith: the way up is the way down. In God's kingdom, greatness is found in humility, strength in weakness, and honor in service. This upside-down reality runs counter to everything our achievement-oriented culture teaches us. Jesus himself embodied this paradox. Though equal with God, he humbled himself, taking the form of a servant. He taught that the first shall be last and the last shall be first. And he invited his followers to learn from him because he is "gentle and humble in heart." In Matthew 18, Jesus places a child in the midst of his disciples—grown men concerned with position and status—and declares that unless they become like children, they cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. This isn't about childishness but childlikeness: a willingness to depend completely on the Father. The proud heart says, "I can do this myself." The humble heart says, "I need you, God." The proud heart demands recognition and reward. The humble heart finds joy in serving others. The proud heart is restless, always striving for more. The humble heart finds rest in God's sufficiency. Today, embrace the paradox of grace. Consider how God might be inviting you to go lower in order to experience the true elevation that comes from his hand alone. Remember that in God's economy, humility isn't weakness—it's the pathway to authentic strength and lasting peace.
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 18:4
Reflection Question
Where in your life might God be inviting you to embrace the paradox of grace—to go lower in order to experience true elevation?
"This is the paradox of grace. The way up is the way down." — Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for modeling true humility. Forgive me for the times I've sought elevation through my own efforts rather than through surrender to you. Help me to embrace the paradox of your kingdom, finding strength in weakness and honor in service. Make me childlike in my trust and dependence on you. In your name I pray, amen.