Daily Word - The Net - Matthew 13: 47-53

Scripture:
Matthew 13:47-53 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Net
47 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a large net thrown into the sea. It collected every kind [of fish], (A) 48 and when it was full, they dragged it ashore, sat down, and gathered the good [fish] into containers, but threw out the worthless ones. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out, separate the evil people from the righteous, (B) 50 and throw them into the blazing furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (C)
The Storehouse of Truth
51 "Have you understood all these things?" [a]
"Yes," they told Him.
52 "Therefore," He said to them, "every student of Scripture [b] instructed in the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who brings out of his storeroom what is new and what is old." (D) 53 When Jesus had finished these parables, He left there.
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:51 Other mss add Jesus asked them
Matthew 13:52 Or every scribe
Cross references:
Matthew 13:47 : Mt 3:2; 13:44; 22:10;
Matthew 13:49 : Mt 13:39-40; 25:32;
Matthew 13:50 : Mt 8:12; 13:42;
Matthew 13:52 : Mt 12:35; 28:19;

Reflection:
What can a story about a fishing net and a big catch tell us about God's kingdom? The two most common ways of fishing in Jesus' time was with a casting-net (or hand-net) which was thrown from the shore and the drag-net or trawl which was let down or cast into the waters from a boat. As the boat moved through the waters the drag-net was drawn into the shape of a great cone which indiscriminately took in all kinds of fish and flotsam and jetsam swept in its path. It usually took several men to haul such a net to shore. What is Jesus' point here? Just as a drag-net catches every kind of fish in the sea, so the church acts as God's instrument for gathering in all who will come. Just as the drag-net does not or cannot discriminate, so the church does not discriminate between the good and the bad, the useless and the useful. God's kingdom is open to all who will accept and believe. But there will come a time of separation, at the close of the age, when the angels will send the good and the bad to their respective destinations. Our duty is to gather in all who will come. God, in the end, will dole out the reward or punishment. God offers the treasure of his kingdom to all who believe. Do you hunger for God and his kingdom?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, increase my hunger for your kingdom and fill my heart with eager longing for you that I may one day gaze upon your face in everlasting bliss.

Daily Word - A Very Expensive Pearl - Matthew 13:44-46

Scripture:
Matthew 13:44-46 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and of the Priceless Pearl 44 "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure, buried in a field, that a man found and reburied. Then in his joy he goes and sells everything he has and buys that field. (A)
45 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. 46 When he found one priceless [a] pearl, he went and sold everything he had, and bought it. (B)
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:46 Or very precious
Cross references:
Matthew 13:44 : Is 55:1; Php 3:7-8; Rv 3:18;
Matthew 13:46 : Pr 2:4; Mt 7:6;

Reflection:
What do you most treasure? In a peasant community the best safe was often the earth. The man in the parable "went in his joy" to sell everything. Why? Because he found a treasure worth possessing above all else he had. He did not, however, have enough to buy the treasure. Fortunately, he only needed enough to buy the field. In a similar fashion, God offers his kingdom as incomparable treasure at a price we can afford! We can't pay the full price for the life which God gives us; but when we exchange our life for the life which God offers, we receive a treasure beyond compare. The pearl of great price also tells us a similar lesson. Pearls in the ancient world came to represent the supremely valuable. Jesus remarked that one should not cast pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6). Why would a merchant sell everything for a peerless pearl? No doubt because he was attracted to what he thought was the greatest treasure he could possess.
Discovering God's kingdom is like stumbling across hidden treasure or finding the one pearl of great price. When we discover the kingdom of God we receive the greatest possible treasure -- the Lord himself. Selling all that we have to obtain this incomparable treasure could mean many things -- our friends, job, our "style of life", what we do with our free time. Treasure has a special connection to the heart, the place of desire and longing, the place of will and focus. The thing we most set our heart on is our highest treasure. In this parable what does the treasure of the kingdom refer to? It certainly refers to the kingdom of God in all its aspects. But in a special way, the Lord himself is the treasure we seek for. If the Almighty is your gold and your precious silver, then you will delight yourself in the Almighty (Job 22:22-23). Is the Lord the treasure and delight of your heart?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, reveal to me the true riches of your kingdom. Help me to set my heart on you alone as the treasure beyond compare with any other. Free my heart of any inordinate desires or attachment to other things that I may freely give to you all that I have in joy and gratitude for all that you have given to me. May I always find joy and delight in your presence.

Daily Word - Wheat And Weeds Explained - Matthew 13:35-43

Scripture:
Matthew 13:35-43 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
35 so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
I will open My mouth in parables;
I will declare things kept secret
from the foundation of the world. (A) (B)
Jesus Interprets the Wheat and the Weeds
36 Then He dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached Him and said, "Explain the parable of the weeds in the field to us." (C)
37 He replied: "The One who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; 38 the field is the world; and the good seed—these are the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and (D) 39 the enemy who sowed them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. (E) 40 Therefore just as the weeds are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. (F) 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather from His kingdom everything that causes sin [a] and those guilty of lawlessness. (G) [b] 42 They will throw them into the blazing furnace (H) where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (I) 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father's kingdom. Anyone who has ears [c] should listen! (J)
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:41 Or stumbling
Matthew 13:41 Or those who do lawlessness
Matthew 13:43 Other mss add to hear
Cross references:
Matthew 13:35 : Ps 78:2; Rm 16:25-26; 1Co 2:7; Eph 3:9; Col 1:26;
Matthew 13:35 : Ps 78:2;
Matthew 13:36 : Mt 13:3; 15:15; 21:33;, 45; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 13:38 : Mt 8:12; Jn 8:44; Ac 13:10; 1Jn 3:10;
Matthew 13:39 : Jl 3:13; Heb 9:26; Rv 14:15;
Matthew 13:40 : Mt 24:3; 28:20;
Matthew 13:41 : Zph 1:3; Mt 8:20; 18:7; 24:31;
Matthew 13:42 : Rv 1:15; 9:2;
Matthew 13:42 : Mt 8:12; Rv 19:20; 20:10;
Matthew 13:43 : Dn 12:3; Mt 11:15; 1Co 15:42;

Reflection:
Are you quick to judge? Jesus’ parable teaches us patience lest we judge before the time is right. Jesus also warns that there is an enemy who seeks to destroy the good seed of his word before it can bear fruit. Both good and evil can be sown in our hearts like tiny seeds which germinate, and in due time yield a harvest of good or bad fruit. We must stand guard lest evil take root in our hearts and corrupt us. Charles Read said: “Sow an act and you reap a habit. Sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny.” In the day of judgment each will reap what he or she has sown in this life. Those who sow good will shine in the kingdom of their Father. They will radiate with the beauty, joy, and fulness of God’s love. Do you allow the love of Christ to rule in your heart and in your actions?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may your all-consuming love rule in my heart and transform my life that I may sow what is good, worthy, and pleasing to you.

Daily Word - What Heaven Is Like - Matthew 13:31-35

Scripture:
Matthew 13:31-35 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parables of the Mustard Seed and of the Yeast
31 He (A) presented another parable to them: "The kingdom of heaven (B) is like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. 32 It's the smallest of all the seeds, but when grown, it's taller than the vegetables and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and nest in its branches." (C)
33 He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into 50 pounds [a] of flour until it spread through all of it." (D) [b]
Using Parables Fulfills Prophecy
34 Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables, and He would not speak anything to them without a parable, (E) 35 so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
I will open My mouth in parables;
I will declare things kept secret
from the foundation of the world. (F) (G)
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:33 Lit 3 sata; about 40 quarts
Matthew 13:33 Or until all of it was leavened
Cross references:
Matthew 13:31 : Mk 4:30-32; Lk 13:18-19;
Matthew 13:31 : Mt 13:24; 17:20; Lk 17:6;
Matthew 13:32 : Ps 104:12; Ezk 17:23; 31:6; Dn 4:12;
Matthew 13:33 : Gn 18:6; Lk 13:21; Gl 5:9;
Matthew 13:34 : Mk 4:34; Jn 10:6; 16:25;
Matthew 13:35 : Ps 78:2; Rm 16:25-26; 1Co 2:7; Eph 3:9; Col 1:26;
Matthew 13:35 : Ps 78:2;

Reflection:
What can mustard seeds and leaven teach us about the kingdom of God? The tiny mustard seed literally grew to be a tree which attracted numerous birds because they loved the little black mustard seed it produced. God's kingdom works in a similar fashion. It starts from the smallest beginnings in the hearts of men and women who are receptive to God's word. And it works unseen and causes a transformation from within. Leaven is another powerful agent of change. A lump of dough left to itself remains just what it is, a lump of dough. But when the leaven is added to it a transformation takes place which produces rich and wholesome bread when heated -- the staple of life for humans. The kingdom of God produces a transformation in those who receive the new life which Jesus Christ offers. When we yield to Jesus Christ, our lives are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. Paul the Apostle says, "we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us" (2 Cor. 4:7). Do you believe in the transforming power of the Holy Spirit?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, fill me with your Holy Spirit and transform me into the Christ-like holiness you desire. Increase my zeal for your kingdom and instill in me a holy desire to live for your greater glory.

Daily Word - An Enemy Has Done This - Matthew 13:24-30

Scripture:
Matthew 13:24-30 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds
24 He presented another parable to them: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field. (A) 25 But while people were sleeping, his enemy came, sowed weeds [a] among the wheat, and left. 26 When the plants sprouted and produced grain, then the weeds also appeared. 27 The landowner's slaves (B) came to him and said, 'Master, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Then where did the weeds come from?' 28 " 'An enemy did this!' he told them. " 'So, do you want us to go and gather them up?' the slaves asked him. 29 " 'No,' he said. 'When you gather up the weeds, you might also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At harvest time I'll tell the reapers: Gather the weeds first and tie them in bundles to burn them, but store the wheat in my barn. ' "
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:25 Or darnel, a weed similar in appearance to wheat in the early stages
Cross references: Matthew 13:24 : Mt 18:23; 20:1; 25:1; Mk 4:26;, 30; Matthew 13:27 : Mt 10:24; Col 3:11; 4:1; Rv 1:1;

Reflection:
What can malicious weed-sowing tell us about the kingdom of God? The image Jesus uses here is a common everyday example of planting, harvesting, and sorting the good fruit from the bad. Weeds can spoil and even kill a good harvest if they are not separated and destroyed at the proper time. Uprooting them too early, though, can destroy the good plants in the process. Just as nature teaches us patience, so God's patience also teaches us to guard the word he has planted in our hearts and to beware of the destructive force of sin and evil which can destroy it. God's word brings life, but Satan seeks to destroy the good seed which has been planted in the hearts of those who have heard God's word. God's judgment is not hasty, but it does come. And in the end, God will reward each according to what they have sown and reaped in this life. In that day God will separate the evil from the good. Do you allow God's word to take deep root in your heart?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may your word take deep root in my heart and that I may bear good fruit for your glory. May I hunger for your righteousness now that I may look forward to the day of judgment with joy rather than with dismay.

Daily Word - A Parable Explained - Matthew 13:18-23

Scripture:
Matthew 13:18-23 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Sower Explained
18 "You, then, listen to the parable of the sower: (A) 19 When anyone hears the word [a] about the kingdom and doesn't understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the one sown along the path. (B) 20 And the one sown on rocky ground—this is one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy. (C) 21 Yet he has no root in himself, but is short-lived. When pressure or persecution (D) comes because of the word, immediately he stumbles. 22 Now the one sown among the thorns—this is one who hears the word, but the worries of this age (E) and the seduction [b] of wealth (F) choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 23 But the one sown on the good ground—this is one who hears and understands the word, who does bear fruit and yields: some 100, some 60, some 30 times [what was sown]."
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:19 Gk logos = word, or message, or saying, or thing
Matthew 13:22 Or pleasure, or deceitfulness
Cross references:
Matthew 13:18 : Mk 4:13-20; Lk 8:11-15;
Matthew 13:19 : Mt 4:23; 5:37; 6:13;
Matthew 13:20 : Is 58:2; Ezk 33:31-32; Mk 6:20; Jn 5:35;
Matthew 13:21 : Mk 4:17; 10:30; Ac 8:1; 13:50; Rm 8:35; 2Co 12:10;
Matthew 13:22 : Rm 12:2; 2Tm 4:10; 1Jn 2:15;
Matthew 13:22 : Mt 19:23; Mk 10:23; 1Tm 6:9-10; 2Tm 4:10;

Reflection:
How good are you at listening especially for the word of God? God is ever ready to speak to each of us and to give us understanding of his word. This parable of Jesus is a warning to those who hear and who preach the word of God. What makes us ineffective and unresponsive to God's word? Preoccupation with other things can distract us from what is truly important and worthwhile. And letting our hearts and minds be consumed with material things can easily weigh us down and draw us away from the treasure that lasts for eternity. God's word can only take root in a receptive heart which is docile and ready to hear what God has to say. One lesson is clear: the harvest is sure. While some seed will fall by the wayside and some fall on shallow ground and never come to maturity, and some be choked to death by the thorns; nonetheless a harvest will come. The seed that falls on good soil, on the heart that is receptive, will reap abundant fruit. Are you teachable and eager to learn God's truth? And do you allow anything to keep you from submitting to God's word with joy and trusting obedience?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, help me to guard the word you have planted in my heart that no doubt or temptation may keep me from believing and obeying you. May I be fruitful in your service and may I never fear to speak of you to others and to share with them the good news of the gospel.

Daily Word - Do You Want To Understand? Really? - Matthew 13:10-17

Scripture:
Matthew 13:10-17 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Why Jesus Used Parables
10 Then the disciples (A) came up and asked Him, "Why do You speak to them in parables?" (B) 11 He answered them, "Because the secrets [a] of the kingdom of heaven have been given for you to know, (C) but it has not been given to them. 12 For whoever has, [more] will be given to him, and he will have more than enough. But whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. (D) 13 For this reason I speak to them in parables, because looking they do not see, (E) and hearing they do not listen or understand. (F) 14 Isaiah's prophecy is fulfilled in them, which says:
You will listen and listen,
yet never understand;
and you will look and look,
yet never perceive. (G)
15 For this people's heart has grown callous;
their ears are hard of hearing,
and they have shut their eyes;
otherwise they might see with their eyes
and hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn back—
and I would cure them. (H) (I)
16 "But your eyes are blessed (J) because they do see, and your ears because they do hear! (K) 17 For I assure you: Many prophets and righteous people longed to see the things you see yet didn't see them; to hear the things you hear yet didn't hear them. (L)
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:11 The Gk word mysteria does not mean "mysteries" in the Eng sense; it means what we can know only by divine revelation.
Cross references:
Matthew 13:10 : Mt 9:10; Mk 10:10; Lk 6:1; Jn 6:3; Ac 6:1;
Matthew 13:10 : Mt 13:35; 15:15; 21:33;, 45; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 13:11 : Mt 11:25; 19:11; Jn 6:65; 1Co 2:10; Col 1:27; 1Jn 2:20;, 27;
Matthew 13:12 : Mt 25:29; Lk 8:18; 19:26; Jn 15:2; Jms 4:6;
Matthew 13:13 : Dt 29:4; Is 42:19-20; Jr 5:21; Ezk 12:2;
Matthew 13:13 : Mt 15:10; 16:12; 17:13; Mk 8:21;
Matthew 13:14 : Is 6:9; Mk 4:12; Lk 8:10; Jn 12:40; Ac 28:26-27; Rm 11:8;
Matthew 13:15 : Is 6:10; Mt 15:8; Heb 5:11;
Matthew 13:15 : Is 6:9-10;
Matthew 13:16 : Lk 10:23-24;
Matthew 13:16 : Mt 16:17; Jn 20:29;
Matthew 13:17 : Jn 8:56; Heb 11:13; 1Pt 1:10-12;

Reflection:
Jesus told his disciples that not everyone would understand his parables. Did Jesus mean to say that he was deliberately confusing his listeners? Very likely not. Jesus was speaking from experience. He was aware that some who heard his parables refused to understand them. It was not that they could not intellectually understand them, but rather, their hearts were closed to what Jesus was saying. They had already made up their minds to not believe. God can only reveal the secrets of his kingdom to the humble and trusting person who acknowledges the need for God and for his truth. The parables of Jesus will enlighten us if we approach them with an open mind and heart, ready to let them challenge us. If we approach them with the conviction that we already know the answer, then we, too, may look but not see, listen but not hear or understand. God's word can only take root in a receptive heart that is ready to believe and willing to submit. If we want to hear and to understand God's word, we must listen with godly fear and reverence. Do you believe God's word and do you submit to it with trust and reverence?

Prayer For The Day:
Holy Spirit, fan the flame of God's love within me and consume me with your fire, that I may grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ and ever seek to do his will. May my heart never grow dull and may my ears never tire of listening to the voice of Christ.

Daily Word - Fruit Anyone? - Matthew 13:1-9

Scripture:
Matthew 13:1-9 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Sower
Matthew 13
1 On that day Jesus went out of the house and was sitting by the sea. (A) 2 Such large crowds gathered around Him that He got into a boat and sat down, while the whole crowd stood on the shore. (B)
3 Then He told them many things in parables, (C) saying: "Consider the sower who went out to sow. 4 As he was sowing, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and ate them up. 5 Others fell on rocky ground, where there wasn't much soil, and they sprang up quickly since the soil wasn't deep. 6 But when the sun came up they were scorched, and since they had no root, they withered. 7 Others fell among thorns, and the thorns came up and choked them. 8 Still others fell on good ground, and produced a crop: some 100, some 60, and some 30 times [what was sown]. (D) 9 Anyone who has ears [a] should listen!" (E)
Footnotes:
Matthew 13:9 Other mss add to hear
Cross references:
Matthew 13:1 : Mk 4:1-12; Lk 8:4-10;
Matthew 13:2 : Mk 3:9; Lk 5:3;
Matthew 13:3 : Mt 13:10;, 34-36; 15:15; 21:33;, 45; 22:1; 24:32; Mk 4:2;
Matthew 13:8 : Gn 26:12; Mt 13:23;
Matthew 13:9 : Mt 11:15; 13:43; Lk 8:8; 14:35; Rv 2:7;, 11;, 17;, 29; 3:6;, 13;, 22;

Reflection:
Are you hungry for God's word? Matthew tells us that Jesus taught many things to those who came to listen and learn. Jesus' teaching method was a very simple one. He used parables – short stories and images taken from everyday life to convey hidden truths about the kingdom of God. Like a skillful artist, Jesus painted evocative pictures with short and simple words. A good image can speak more loudly and clearly than many words. Jesus used the ordinary everyday to point to another order of reality – hidden, yet visible to those who had "eyes to see" and "ears to hear". Jesus communicated with pictures and stories, vivid illustrations which captured the imaginations of his audience more powerfully than an abstract presentation could. His parables are like buried treasure waiting to be discovered (Matt. 13:44).
What does the parable about seeds and roots say to us about the kingdom of God? Any farmer will attest to the importance of good soil for supplying nutrients for growth. And how does a plant get the necessary food and water it needs except by its roots? The scriptures frequently use the image of fruit-bearing plants or trees to convey the principle of spiritual life and death. "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit" (Jeremiah 17:7-8; see also Psalm 1:3).
Jesus' parable of the sower is aimed at the hearers of his word. There are different ways of accepting God's word and they produce different kinds of fruit accordingly. There is the prejudiced hearer who has a shut mind. Such a person is unteachable and blind to what he or she doesn't want to hear. Then there is the shallow hearer. He or she fails to think things out or think them through; they lack depth. They may initially respond with an emotional reaction; but when it wears off their mind wanders to something else. Another type of hearer is the person who has many interests or cares, but who lacks the ability to hear or comprehend what is truly important. Such a person is for ever too busy to pray or too preoccupied to study and meditate on God's word. He or she may work so hard that they are too tired to even think of anything else but their work. Then there is the one whose mind is open. Such a person is at all times willing to listen and to learn. He or she is never too proud or too busy to learn. They listen in order to understand. God gives grace to those who hunger for his word that they may understand his will and have the strength to live according to it. Do you hunger for God's word?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, faith in your word is the way to wisdom, and to ponder your divine plan is to grow in the truth. Open my eyes to your deeds, and my ears to the sound of your call, that I may understand your will for my life and live according to it.

Daily Word - If You Love Me Do My Will - Matthew 12:46-50

Scripture:
Matthew 12:46-50 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
True Relationships
46 He (A) was still speaking to the crowds when suddenly His mother and brothers were standing outside wanting to speak to Him. (B) 47 Someone told Him, "Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to You." [a]
48 But He replied to the one who told Him, "Who is My mother and who are My brothers?" 49 And stretching out His hand toward His disciples, (C) He said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven, that person is My brother and sister and mother." (D)
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:47 Other mss omit this v.
Cross references:
Matthew 12:46 : Mk 3:31-35; Lk 8:19-21;
Matthew 12:46 : Mt 13:55; Mk 6:3; Jn 2:12; Ac 1:14; 1Co 9:5; Gl 1:19;
Matthew 12:49 : Mt 10:42; 28:19; Lk 14:26; Jn 8:31; 13:35; 15:8; Ac 6:1;
Matthew 12:50 : Mt 6:1; 7:21; Jn 15:14; Heb 2:11;

Reflection:
Who do you relate to as your closest family and friends? God did not intend for us to be alone, but to be with others. He gives us many opportunities for developing relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Why does Jesus seem to ignore his own relatives when they pressed to see him? His love and respect for his mother and his relatives is unquestionable. Jesus never lost an opportunity to teach his disciples a spiritual lesson and truth about the kingdom of God. On this occasion when many gathered to hear Jesus he pointed to another higher reality of relationships, namely our relationship with God and with those who belong to God.
What is the essence of being a Christian? It is certainly more than doctrine, precepts, and commandments. It is first and foremost a relationship – a relationship of trust, affection, commitment, loyalty, faithfulness, kindness, thoughtfulness, compassion, mercy, helpfulness, encouragement, support, strength, protection, and so many other qualities that bind persons together in mutual love and unity. God offers us the greatest of relationships - union of heart, mind, and spirit with himself, the very author and source of love (1 John 4:8,16). God's love never fails, never forgets, never compromises, never lies, never lets us down nor disappoints us. His love is consistent, unwavering, unconditional, and unstoppable. Nothing can deter him from ever leaving us, ignoring us, or treating us unkindly. He will love us no matter what. It is his nature to love. That is why he created us - to be united with him and to share in his love and unity (1 John 3:1). God is a trinity of persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - and a community of love. That is why Jesus challenged his followers and even his own earthly family to recognize that God is the true source of all relationships. God wants all of our relationships to be rooted in his love.
Jesus is God's love incarnate - God's love made flesh (1 John 4:9-10) . That is why Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep and the shepherd who seeks out the sheep who have strayed and lost their way. God is like the father who yearns for his prodigal son to return home and then throws a great party for him when he repents and comes back. Jesus offered up his life on the cross for our sake, so that we could be forgiven and restored to unity with God. It is through Jesus that we become the adopted children of God - his own sons and daughters. That is why Jesus told his disciples that they would have many new friends and family relationships in his kingdom. Whoever does the will of God is a friend of God and a member of his family.
An early Christian martyr once said that "a Christian's only relatives are the saints" -- namely those who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ and made sons and daughters of God. Those who have been baptized into Christ and who live as his disciples enter into a new family, a family of "saints" here on earth and in heaven. Jesus changes the order of relationships and shows that true kinship is not just a matter of flesh and blood. Our adoption as sons and daughters of God transforms all our relationships and requires a new order of loyalty to God first and to his kingdom of righteousness and peace. Do you want to grow in love and friendship? Allow God's Holy Spirit to transform your heart, mind, and will to enable you to love freely and generously as he loves.

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, show me your will and make it the desire of my heart to live in the middle of it.

Daily Word - A House Left Vacant - Matthew 12:43-45

Scripture:
Matthew 12:43-45 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
An Unclean Spirit's Return
43 "When an unclean [a] spirit comes out of a man, it roams through waterless places looking for rest but doesn't find any. (A) 44 Then it says, 'I'll go back to my house that I came from.' And when it arrives, it finds [the house] vacant, swept, and put in order. 45 Then off it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and settle down there. As a result, that man's last condition is worse than the first. (B) That's how it will also be with this evil generation."
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:43 Morally or ceremonially impure
Cross references:
Matthew 12:43 : Lk 11:24-26;
Matthew 12:45 : Heb 6:4; 2Pt 2:20;

Reflection:
What is the point of Jesus' grim story about a vacant house being occupied by some evil force? If you knew that someone had a life-threatening disease, would you let that person into your house without proper protection? Sin and evil are like deadly viruses. They are especially contagious when we get close to them and allow them to infect us. Jesus warned his followers about leaving their homes and lives unprotected from destructive and evil forces. It's not enough, however, to simply" clean house" by banishing evil thoughts and breaking with bad habits . Something has to take their place to fill the void that has been created.
God wants to fill the void in our lives with himself and with the good things he provides for our well-being. Augustine of Hippo said that our lives have a God-shaped void which only God can fill satisfactory. If we attempt to leave it vacant or to fill it with something else, we will be worse in the end. What do you fill the void in your life with? Jesus makes it clear that there are no neutral parties. We are either for Jesus or against him, for the kingdom of God or against it. There are two kingdoms in opposition to one another— the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness under the rule of Satan. If we disobey God's word, we open to door to the power of sin and Satan. If we want to live in freedom from sin and Satan, then our house must be occupied by Jesus where he is enthroned as Lord and Savior. Do you know the peace and security of a life submitted to God and his word?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, be the ruler of my heart and the master of my home. May there be nothing in my life that is not under your lordship.

Daily Word - An Adulterous Generation Seeks A Sign - Matthew 12:38-42

Scripture:
Matthew 12:38-42 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Sign of Jonah
38 Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Him, "Teacher, we want to see a sign from You." (A)
39 But He answered them, (B) "An evil and adulterous generation demands a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. (C) 40 For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish three days and three nights, so the Son of Man will be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights. 41 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, (D) because they repented at Jonah's proclamation; and look—something greater than Jonah is here! (E) 42 The queen of the south (F) will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and look—something greater than Solomon is here!
Cross references:
Matthew 12:38 : Mt 16:1; Mk 8:11-12; Lk 11:16; Jn 2:18; 6:30; 1Co 1:22;
Matthew 12:39 : Mk 8:11-12; Lk 11:29-32;
Matthew 12:39 : Is 57:3; Mt 16:4; Mk 8:38;
Matthew 12:41 : Jr 3:11; Ezk 16:51; Rm 2:27;
Matthew 12:41 : Jnh 1:2; 3:5;
Matthew 12:42 : 1Kg 10:1; 2Ch 9:1;

Reflection:
What would Jesus say about our generation? Jesus gave a rather stern warning to his generation when they demanded a sign from him. It was characteristic of the Jews that they demanded "signs" from God's messengers to authenticate their claims. Jesus faulted them for one thing: spiritual adultery. The image of adultery was often used in the scriptures for describing apostasy or infidelity towards God. When the religious leaders pressed Jesus to give proof for his claims he says in so many words that he is God's sign and that they need no further evidence from heaven than his own person. The Ninevites recognized God's warning when Jonah spoke to them, and they repented. And the Queen of Sheba recognized God's wisdom in Solomon. Jonah was God's sign and his message was the message of God for the people of Nineveh. Unfortunately the religious leaders were not content to accept the signs right before their eyes. They had rejected the message of John the Baptist and now they reject Jesus as God's Anointed One (Messiah) and they fail to heed his message. Simeon had prophesied at Jesus' birth that he was "destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that inner thoughts of many will be revealed" (Luke 2:34- 35). Jesus confirmed his message with many miracles in preparation for the greatest sign of all – his resurrection on the third day. The Lord Jesus through the gift of his Holy Spirit offers us freedom from sin and wisdom for our lives, if we listen to him. Do you thirst for Godly wisdom? James says that the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, without uncertainty or insincerity (James 3:17). A double-minded person cannot receive this kind of wisdom. The single of mind desire one thing alone– that which is good and ordered according to God's wise plan. Ask the Lord to renew your mind and to increase your thirst for his wisdom.

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, give me your wisdom and increase my love for your ways. Help me to resist temptation and all wilfulness that I may wholly desire to do what is pleasing to you.

Daily Word - Good And Bad Fruit - Matthew 12:33-37

Scripture:
Matthew 12:33-37 (New International Version)
33"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."

Reflection:
How do you know for certain that a tree is healthy and life-producing? Outward appearances can be misleading or even deceptive. There may be rottenness or decay inside! But if a tree continues to bear good fruit year after year, then you know it is sound and healthy. Jesus uses this analogy as a mirror image of the true condition of one's heart and moral character. What's inside of us - the inner core of our being, the place of choice and will, desire and passion, attitude and disposition - will either produce good or bad fruit! And it will be obvious to everyone who knows us what kind of fruit we are bearing.
Our daily speech and actions reveal what is really inside the heart. That is why Jesus called the religious leaders of his day a "brood of vipers". When they saw Jesus casting out demons they branded him an ally of the devil (Matt. 12:24). The tongue of a viper is double-forked making it doubly effective in striking its enemy! The scribes and Pharisees professed knowledge of God and his law, but they betrayed their evil intention and ill-judgment towards Jesus because he claimed to speak and act in God's name.
It is often when we are angry that we let out guard down and reveal what we actually think about others. We can say nice things in public when others are watching us. But when we speak without thinking, or when restraints are down, we reveal what is really inside of us, what we really are.
A person will produce good or bad fruit depending on what is sown in the heart. Charles Read said: "Sow an act and you reap a habit. Sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny." Character, like fruit, doesn't grow overnight. It takes a lifetime. Jesus connects soundness with good fruit. Something is sound when it is free from defect, decay, or disease and is healthy. Good fruit is the result of sound living — living according to moral truth and upright character. The prophet Isaiah warned against the dangers of falsehood: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness" (Isaiah 5:20). The fruits of falsehood produce an easy religion which takes the iron out of religion, the cross out of Christianity, and any teaching which eliminates the hard sayings of Jesus, and which push the judgments of God into the background and makes us think lightly of sin.
How do we avoid falsehood and bad fruit? By being true — true to God, his word, and his grace. And that takes character! Those who are true to God know that their strength lies not in themselves but in God who supplies the grace we need to live as his disciples. The fruit of a disciple is marked by faith, hope and love, justice, prudence, fortitude and temperance. Do you cultivate good fruit in your life and reject whatever produces bad fruit?
Cyril of Alexandria, commenting on this passage writes: "When he says 'treasure,' Christ refers to the multitude of motives that lie in the soul. It is not by nature that people are good or bad but by their own choice. He makes this plain in his remark to the Pharisees: It is possible for one and the same person at one time to become good, at another time evil, for 'a good man speaks out of the abundance of his heart,' and likewise for the bad."

Prayer For The Day:
"Lord Jesus, take my heart, mind and will, and all my thoughts, intentions and actions, and all my desires and affections, and make them wholly yours. Transform me that I may only think and say and do what is pleasing to you and in accord with your will."

Daily Word - Blasphemy Against The Spirit - Matthew 12:31-32

Scripture:
Matthew 12:31-32 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
31 Because of this, (A) I tell you, people will be forgiven every sin and blasphemy, (B) but the blasphemy against [a] the Spirit will not be forgiven. [b] 32 Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, (C) it will be forgiven him. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the one to come. (D)
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:31 Or of
Matthew 12:31 Other mss add people
Cross references:
Matthew 12:31 : Mk 3:28-30; Lk 12:10;
Matthew 12:31 : Heb 6:4-6; 10:26; 1Jn 5:16;
Matthew 12:32 : Mt 11:19; Mk 2:10; Jn 7:12; 9:24;
Matthew 12:32 : Mk 10:30; Lk 12:10; 20:34-35; Eph 1:21; Ti 2:12; Heb 6:5;

Reflection:
What is the unforgivable sin which Jesus warns us to avoid? Jesus knows that his disciples will be tested and he assures them that the Holy Spirit will give them what they need in their time of adversity. He warns them, however, that it's possible to spurn the grace of God and to fall into apostasy (giving up the faith) out of cowardice or disbelief. Why is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit reprehensible? Blasphemy consists in uttering against God, inwardly or outwardly, words of hatred, reproach, or defiance. It's contrary to the respect due God and his holy name. Jesus speaks of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit as the unforgivable sin. Jesus spoke about this sin immediately after the scribes and Pharisees had attributed his miracles to the work of the devil instead of to God. A sin can only be unforgivable if repentance is impossible. If someone repeatedly closes his eye to God and shuts his ears to his voice, he comes to a point where he can no longer recognize God when he can be seen, and when he sees evil as good and good as evil (Is. 5:20). To fear such a sin, however, signals that one is not dead to God and is conscious of the need for God's grace and mercy.
There are no limits to the mercy of God, but any who refuses to accept his mercy by repenting, rejects the forgiveness of his sins and the salvation offered by the Holy Spirit. God gives grace and help to all who humbly call upon him. Giving up on God and refusing to turn away from sin and disbelief results from pride and the loss of hope in God. What is the basis of our hope and confidence in God? Jesus' death on the cross won for us our salvation and adoption as the children of God. The love and mercy of Jesus Christ, the forgiveness of sins, and the gift of the Holy Spirit are freely given to those who acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Is your hope securely placed in Christ and his victory on the cross?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, your mercies are new everyday. Help me to turn away from sin and cooperate with the purifying grace and work of the Holy Spirit in my life.

Why Memorize Scripture - Piper - DesiringGod.org

First, a few testimonies: I have it third hand, that Dr. Howard Hendricks of Dallas Seminary once made the statement (and I paraphrase) that if it were his decision, every student graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary would be required to learn one thousand verses word perfect before they graduated.
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, “Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization” (“Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person” in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
Chuck Swindoll wrote, “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture. . . . No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified” (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).
One of the reasons Martin Luther came to his great discovery in the Bible of justification by faith alone was that in his early years in the Augustinian monastery he was influenced to love Scripture by Johann Staupitz. Luther devoured the Bible in a day when people earned doctorates in theology without even reading the Bible. Luther said that his fellow professor, Andreas Karlstadt, did not even own a Bible when he earned his doctor of theology degree, nor did he until many years later (Richard Bucher, "Martin Luther's Love for the Bible"). Luther knew so much of the Bible from memory that when the Lord opened his eyes to see the truth of justification in Romans 1:17, he said, “Thereupon I ran through the Scriptures from memory,” in order to confirm what he had found.
So here are a few reasons why so many have viewed Scripture memorization as so essential to the Christian life.
1. Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that “we all, . . . beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” (2 Corinthians 3:18)) If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see him. This happens in the word. “The Lord revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the Lord” (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus steadier and clearer.
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. . . . I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:9, 11). Paul said that we must “by the Spirit . . . put to death the [sinful] deeds of the body” (Romans 8:13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the “sword of the Spirit” which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1-11).
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God’s love can draw on the mind full of God’s word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God’s holiness/law/glory; 2) man’s sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ’s death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
The way we commune with (that is, fellowship with) God is by meditating on his attributes and expressing to him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking his help to live a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to him as he really is. For example, imagine being able to call this to mind through the day:
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:8-14)
I used the word “enjoyment” intentionally when I said, “communion with God in the enjoyment of his person and ways.” Most of us are emotionally crippled—all of us, really. We do not experience God in the fullness of our emotional potential. How will that change? One way is to memorize the emotional expressions of the Bible and speak them to the Lord and to each other until they become part of who we are. For example, in Psalm 103:1, we say, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!” That is not a natural expression for many people. But if we memorize this and other emotional expressions from the Bible, and say them often, asking the Lord to make the emotion real in our hearts, we can actually grow into that emotion and expression. It will become part of who we are. We will be less emotionally crippled and more able to render proper praise and thanks to God.
There are other reasons for memorizing Scripture. I hope you find them in the actual practice.

Daily Word - A Divided House Cannot Stand - Matthew 12:22-30

Scripture:
Matthew 12:22-30 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
A House Divided
22 Then a demon-possessed man (A) who was blind and unable to speak was brought to Him. He healed him, so that the man [a] could both speak and see. (B) 23 And all the crowds were astounded and said, "Perhaps this is the Son of David!" (C)
24 When the Pharisees heard this, they said, "The man drives out demons only by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons." (D)
25 Knowing their thoughts, (E) He told them: "Every kingdom divided against itself is headed for destruction, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. 26 If Satan (F) drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? 27 And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, who is it your sons drive them out by? For this reason they will be your judges. (G) 28 If I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you. (H) 29 How can someone enter a strong man's house and steal his possessions unless he first ties up (I) the strong man? Then he can rob his house. 30 Anyone who is not with Me is against Me, (J) and anyone who does not gather with Me scatters.
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:22 Lit mute
Cross references:
Matthew 12:22 : Lk 11:14-15;
Matthew 12:22 : Mt 4:24; 9:32-34;
Matthew 12:23 : 2Ch 1:1; Mt 1:1; Rm 1:3;
Matthew 12:24 : Mt 9:34; 10:25; Mk 3:22;
Matthew 12:25 : Mk 3:23-27; Lk 11:17-22;
Matthew 12:26 : Mt 4:1;, 10; 13:19; Ac 13:10;
Matthew 12:27 : 2Kg 2:7; Ac 19:13;
Matthew 12:28 : Lk 17:21; 1Jn 3:8;
Matthew 12:29 : Is 49:24; 53:12;
Matthew 12:30 : Mk 9:40; Lk 9:50; 11:23;

Reflection:
Which condition is worse -- physical blindness or spiritual darkness? Matthew describes a demonized man who was brought to Jesus so he could be healed. This man was not just physically unable to see or speak. He was spiritually oppressed as well. Fortunately his friends brought him to the one who could set him free from his physical and spiritual affliction. Satan loves to keep people in darkness and in fear. He will use whatever means possible, whether it be a physical weakness, a mental affliction, some emotional trouble, or an addiction, to lead people into despair and bitterness, so that they end up distrusting God and his love for them. Jesus has power to set us free from any affliction that might keep us in bondage to fear, sin and despair. Jesus' ability to set people free from crippling infirmities and from spiritual illness amazed those who witnessed his miracles. No one had done such marvelous works before. When they saw what Jesus did, they openly wondered among themselves if this might be the "Son of David", a title for the expected Messiah. The Lord wants us to approach him with the same awe and expectant faith as those who brought the "blind and dumb" and the opressed to Jesus.
Why did the religious authorities react so negatively to Jesus' healings and exorcisms? Where they jealous of his spiritual power and authority? Or did they feel threatened that Jesus was drawing people to himself rather than to them? They were unable to stop or silence Jesus because the crowds held Jesus in great awe and respect. Some of the religious leaders tried to dismiss Jesus' authority to perform miracles and exorcisms by claiming that Jesus got his power from Satan rather than from God. This was a serious charge which Jesus could not ignore. Jesus answered their charge with two arguments. There were many exorcists in Palestine in Jesus' time. So Jesus retorted by saying that they also incriminate their own people (their family members and relatives) who also have power to cast out demons. If they condemn Jesus they also condemn themselves.
In his second argument Jesus asserts that no nation, city, or house divided against itself cannot survive for long. We have witnessed enough strife, genocide, and civil wars in our own time between peoples and nations who cannot tolerate one another or live peaceably side by side. Strife, prejudice and division inevitably lead to disharmony, hostility, and bitter fighting. Jesus said it would not make any sense for Satan to give anyone else the power and authority to undo the chain of allegiance which his armies give solely to him. If Satan lends his power against his own spiritual forces then he is certainly finished and his army is made weak and powerless. Jesus makes another simple observation: How can a strong person be defeated except by someone who is stronger? Jesus asserted his authority to cast out demons as a clear demonstration of God's reign and power to rule in peoples' lives. God's power is clearly at work in the exorcisms which Jesus performed and they give evidence that God's kingdom has come. Do you want to experience the Lord's victory and protection over sin and oppression in your life? If you obey him and submit to his rule, you will certainly know and experience his kingly peace, presence, and protection.
What is the point of Jesus' grim story (parable) about a strong man's house being occupied by an evil force? Our foe and the arch-enemy of God, who is called "Satan" and the "father of lies", is very powerful. Unless we are clothed in God's strength, we cannot overcome Satan by ourselves. Satan seeks to rule the world in place of God. That is why he uses whatever means he can to get us to obey him rather than God. What does Satan wish to take from us? Our faith and confidence in God and our submission to his kingly rule. Satan can only have power or control over us if we listen to his lies and give in to his will. Jesus makes it clear that there are no neutral parties in this world. We are either for Jesus or against him, for the kingdom of God or against it. Scripture tells us very clearly that there are ultimately only two kingdoms in opposition to one another— the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness under the rule of Satan. If we disregard and disobey God's word, we open to door to the power of sin and to Satan's deception and control. If we want to live in freedom from sinful desires and from Satan's oppression, then our house must be occupied by Jesus where he is enthroned as Lord, Master, Savior, and Shepherd of our soul. Do you know the peace and security of a life fully submitted to God and to his word?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, you are my hope, my refuge, and my salvation. Be the ruler of my heart and the master of my home. May there be nothing in my life that is not under your protective care and lordship.

Daily Word - God's Chosen Servant - Matthew 12:14-21

Scripture:
Matthew 12:14-21 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
14 But the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him. (A)
The Servant of the Lord
15 When Jesus became aware of this, He withdrew from there. Huge crowds [a] followed Him, and He healed them all. (B) 16 He warned them not to make Him known, (C) 17 so that what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:
18 Here is My Servant whom I have chosen,
My beloved in whom My soul delights;
I will put My Spirit on Him,
and He will proclaim justice to the nations. (D)
19 He will not argue or shout,
and no one will hear His voice in the streets.
20 He will not break a bruised reed,
and He will not put out a smoldering wick,
until He has led justice to victory. [b]
21 The nations will put their hope in His name. (E) (F)
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:15 Other mss read Many
Matthew 12:20 Or until He has successfully put forth justice
Cross references:
Matthew 12:14 : Mt 26:4; 27:1; Mk 3:6; Lk 6:11; Jn 10:39; 11:53;
Matthew 12:15 : Mt 4:23; 10:23; 19:2; Mk 3:7;
Matthew 12:16 : Mt 8:4; 9:30;
Matthew 12:18 : Mt 3:17; 17:5; Lk 4:18; Jn 3:34;
Matthew 12:21 : Is 42:1-4; Jn 10:25;
Matthew 12:21 : Is 42:1-4;

Reflection:
In everyone's life there are key moments or turning points on which the whole of one's life hinges. The mounting confrontation between the Pharisees and Jesus was such a decisive event and crisis. The religious leaders became intolerant because of their prejudice. Nothing that Jesus would do or say from this point on would be right in their eyes. They conspired, not simply to oppose Jesus but to eliminate him. Jesus met this defiance with courage and determination. He used the crisis to teach his disciples an important lesson for the kingdom way to success and victory. The only way to glory in God's kingdom is through the cross. Jesus quoted from the "Suffering Servant" prophecies of Isaiah to explain how he would accomplish his mission, not through crushing power but through sacrificial service. In place of a throne he would mount the cross and wear a crown of thorns. There is no greater proof of God's love for us. Jesus died not only for Jew but Gentile as well. Isaiah had prophesied centuries before, that the Messiah would bring justice to the Gentiles. To the Greek mind, justice involved giving to God and to men that which is their due. Jesus taught his disciples how to behave towards God and towards others. Jesus brings justice tempered with divine love. He does not bruise the weak or treat them with contempt, but rather shows understanding. He does not discourage the fainthearted but gives encouragement and hope. No matter how hopeless or weak one may be, the Lord Jesus is ever ready to bring his healing love, hope, and encouragement. Do you hope in God and trust in his mercy and justice?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, strengthen me in your love and hope. Make me an instrument of your hope that I may encourage those who have no hope.

Daily Word - Christ Heals On the Sabbath - Matthew 12:9-14

Scripture:
Matthew 12:9-14 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Man with the Paralyzed Hand
9 Moving on from there, He entered their synagogue. (A) 10 There He saw a man who had a paralyzed hand. And in order to accuse Him they asked Him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?" (B)
11 But He said to them, "What man among you, if he had a sheep [a] that fell into a pit on the Sabbath, wouldn't take hold of it and lift it out? (C) 12 A man is worth far more than a sheep, (D) so it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."
13 Then He told the man, "Stretch out your hand." So he stretched it out, and it was restored, (E) as good as the other. 14 But the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him. (F)
Footnotes:
Matthew 12:11 Or had one sheep
Cross references:
Matthew 12:9 : Mk 3:1-6; Lk 6:6-11;
Matthew 12:10 : Mt 12:2; Lk 13:14; 14:3; Jn 9:16;
Matthew 12:11 : Ex 23:4-5; Dt 22:4; Lk 14:5;
Matthew 12:12 : Mt 6:26; 10:31;
Matthew 12:13 : 1Kg 13:4; Mt 8:3; Ac 28:8;
Matthew 12:14 : Mt 26:4; 27:1; Mk 3:6; Lk 6:11; Jn 10:39; 11:53;

Reflection:
What is God's intention for the commandment, keep holy the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8; Deut. 5:12)? The scribes and Pharisees wanted to catch Jesus in the act of breaking the Sabbath ritual so they might accuse him of breaking God's law. They were filled with fury and contempt for Jesus because they put their own thoughts of right and wrong above God. They were ensnared in their own legalism because they did not understand or see the purpose of God. Jesus shows their fallacy by pointing to God's intention for the Sabbath: to do good and to save life rather than to do evil or to destroy life. Christians celebrate Sunday as the Lord's Day, to commemorate God's work of redemption in Jesus Christ and the new work of creation he accomplished through Christ's death and resurrection. Taking "our sabbath rest" is a way of expressing honor to God for all that he has done for us. Such "rest" however does not exempt us from our love for our neighbor. If we truly love the Lord above all else, then the love of God will overflow to love of neighbor as well. Do you honor the Lord in the way you celebrate Sunday, the Lord's Day and in the way you treat you neighbor?

Prayer For The Day:
Lord, in your victory over sin and death on the cross and in your resurrection you give us the assurance of sharing in the eternal rest of heaven. Transform my heart with your love that I may freely serve my neighbor for his good and find joy and refreshment in the celebration of Sunday as the Lord's Day.