This month’s devotional submission is by Kaji Douša, the Senior Pastor of The Park Avenue Christian Church, a congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ, in New York City.
Discussion
- Read Matthew 7:1-20. Then read the devotional below, “Sacred Epiphanies.”
- Think of a time when you received a quiet, holy revelation. With whom did you share the insight?
- What habits in your life—perhaps daily routines, perhaps time set aside monthly—help you pay attention to God’s wisdom?
- How does your church community support the spiritual journeys of its members?
Devotional
[Jesus taught them, saying,] “Do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them underfoot and turn and maul you.” – Matthew 7:6b (NRSV)
Not every epiphany from God is for everyone. Some revelations should be shouted from the rooftops! But some need to be held tightly. If the wrong person, the wrong force, or the wrong power learns of your epiphany, they may try to get in the way of your blessing.
The sages saw Jesus’s star and kept their journey quiet. They didn’t seek fanfare, though they were conspicuous enough to catch Herod’s attention. As you already know but may not always be ready to admit: Not everyone is for you. Not everyone is with you.
It’s crucial to know who can and cannot be trusted with the things God reveals to you. These trusted people are the ones who will support your spiritual journey, help remove obstacles, and remind you that a test is not the end.
So, before you share your joy or revelation, listen to the Spirit. If God hasn’t said, “Share this,” then hold it close. Trust that some blessings are meant for your heart and your closest spiritual community. Revelations are sacred for a reason: that we think twice, or many times, about how they can move forward, within and without our beings.
Prayer
God who speaks to me in sacred moments, help me to discern what to share and what to hold close. Guide me to those who walk with me in trust. Amen.
