The shrine of Fatima about 70 miles north of Lisbon Portugal has one of the most distinct provenances of any pilgrimage site in Europe. It does not date from the Middle Ages, but rather from the early 20th century.
Nearly two million people a year visit this site, making it one of the most revered locations in all Europe. On May 13 and October 13, half a million pilgrims crowd the square in front of the basilica. Many have arrived on their bloodied knees. Women often walk on their knees when they near the basilica as a sign of extreme devotion.
Whether we agree with their exhibition of devotion or not (many of the local priests do not) the sincerity of their actions cannot be questioned.
How sincere are we as modern Christians in our devotion to the Christ?
Let’s look at four unparalleled Old Testament acts of devotion to God:
Act of Devotion #1:
Noah built an altar and took one of each of the animals in the ark and offered them to God. Genesis 8:20-22.
Act of Devotion #2:
Jacob built an altar where God appeared to him, and at the same time, he abandoned all foreign gods. Genesis 35:1-4.
Act of Devotion #3:
David refused to offer a sacrifice that cost him nothing. 2 Samuel 24:24.
Act of Devotion #4:
Hezekiah restored the altar that had been desecrated by his father, King Ahaz. 2 Chronicles 29:18-24.
When we are sincere in our devotion to God, and we make a show of our love toward him, it will cost us something. It may be our time, our money, or our standing among our fellow men. However, there will be a price.
Let’s look at what we get in return:
God’s Outpouring of Love #1:
God’s blessings will flow without end. Genesis 49:26.
God’s Outpouring of Love #2:
There is joy in heaven when we repent. Luke 15:7.
God’s Outpouring of Love #3:
God’s Spirit dwells in us. 1 Corinthians 3:16.
God’s Outpouring of Love #4:
We will rise to rule at Jesus’ side for a thousand years. Revelation 20:4-6.
The pilgrims who journey to Fatima receive a sense of absolution for their bloodied knees. It’s an act of utmost devotion. However, do they receive more than just broken skin and brittle scabs? That’s between them and God.
For our acts of devotion, the Bible lists exactly what we can expect. We will be blessed, surrounded with joy, have the Spirit dwell within, and rise at Jesus’ side.
That’s what we receive for our bloodied knees.
When we are devoted to Christ, his love will pour over us, and we will know his blessings without end.
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Code: FGO.I.08.14.vp