August 17 – Don’t Let Religion Get in the Way

In today’s episode, Pastor Jenny Dirmann shares a devotion from John 19, reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus and the danger of becoming so familiar with His sacrifice that we simply skim past it. As she considers the pain, humiliation, and suffering Jesus endured, Pastor Jenny draws attention to a striking detail after His death: the Jewish leaders wanted the bodies removed from the crosses because the Sabbath was approaching during Passover week. The very people who had insisted on Jesus’ crucifixion were now concerned with clearing away the evidence of what they had done so they could continue with their religious observance. Pastor Jenny challenges listeners to consider whether we can do something similar—becoming so convinced of our own way that we ignore conviction, push aside our sin, and continue with religious activity without genuine repentance. Following God is not about maintaining the appearance of holiness while avoiding what the Holy Spirit wants to confront in us. Instead, we are called to humbly acknowledge that God determines what is good, true, and right, allowing Him to expose where we have gone astray. Rather than merely doing religious things, may we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, remember His sacrifice, respond to conviction with repentance, and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit.Today's Reading:August 17 – Ezekiel 13–15; John 19