Jan 24 Daily Devotional

Cultivate steps for spiritual growth each day this week.

• Scripture: Matthew 17:20 — He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”
• Reflection: If we show up, and offer ourselves, even our doubting, messy, imperfect, got-it-wrong selves, God can bridge the gap between ourselves and all that is possible. We are enough, just as we are. Beloved, just as we are. God finds in us the kernel, the core, and helps it flourish and become more.
  We all have unkind voices in our minds and hearts. We are quick to diminish our value. We find it difficult to believe that we are worth loving. Or liking. Or trusting.
  And yet, another truth is that we cannot earn or achieve the grace that is offered to us. It is freely given. It connects us. It means we are not alone. And it comes to us, just as we are, because we have been chosen before we ever knew it.
• Spiritual Discipline: What is one question or doubt you have about yourself. something that perhaps holds you back or hinders you? If someone you love, such as a child or close friend, expressed the same criticism about themselves, what would you say to them to help them overcome this same sort of self-doubt? Trust the wisdom within you, which is God-given. Write an affirmation, in a loving voice, that counters what is self-critical. Post it where you can see it, on your mirror or fridge, and make it part of your prayer life.

• From Small Things by Bruce Springsteen: https://youtu.be/vWprjfV84CE?si=5tBztxxEiPZarBnV
• All the Small Things performed by Boyce AVenue: https://youtu.be/ul_4FjgZ9kU?si=xLMzvkP__ji7YPLs
• Mustard Seed by Rain for Roots: https://youtu.be/OzAFC24gsOQ?si=LqDcYdpAhnx3RGqf