Day 152 · June 1

A devotional for today

Today’s readings

• Old Testament: 2 SAMUEL 18:1-19:10
• New Testament: JOHN 20:1-31
• Psalm: PSALM 119:153-176
• Proverb: PROVERBS 16:14-15

Discover

2 Samuel 18 ends with a father's shattered cry: "My son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! I wish I had died instead of you, Absalom, my son, my son!" David wished he could die for his rebellious son — but he could not. Then John 20 opens at a tomb before dawn. Mary Magdalene weeps in the garden until she hears one word — her name: "Mary." She turns: "Teacher!" The risen Jesus calls lost sheep by name. Thomas, who refused to believe without proof, falls down with the greatest confession in the Gospel: "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). And John tells us why he wrote it all: "these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31). David wished he could die in his son's place. Jesus actually did — and rose to seek every straying sheep. It ALL points to Jesus.

Reflect

The psalmist ends his great song with an honest confession: "I have gone astray like a lost sheep. Seek your servant" (Psalm 119:176). Where have I wandered? Can I hear the risen Jesus calling my name today?

Fellowship

Talk with someone about this: Thomas moved from doubt to "My Lord and my God!" What does his story say to those of us who struggle to believe?

Prayer

Father, thank You for a Shepherd who seeks lost sheep and calls them by name. When I stray, come find me. Lord Jesus, help me not only to know Your Word but to live it. Transform my heart so that my life reflects You more each day. Amen.

Live

Listen for your name. The risen Shepherd is seeking you — turn toward His voice today.