Scripture:
Matthew 22:1-14 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
Matthew 22
1 Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables: 2 "The kingdom of heaven (A) may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. (B) 3 He sent out his slaves to summon those invited to the banquet, (C) but they didn't want to come. 4 Again, he sent out other slaves, and said, 'Tell those who are invited: Look, I've prepared my dinner; my oxen and fattened cattle have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet. (D) '
5 "But they paid no attention and went away, one to his own farm, another to his business. 6 And the others seized his slaves, treated them outrageously and killed them. 7 The king [a] was enraged, so he sent out his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned down their city.
8 "Then he told his slaves, 'The banquet is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. (E) 9 Therefore, go to where the roads exit the city and invite everyone you find to the banquet. (F) ' 10 So those slaves went out on the roads and gathered everyone they found, both evil and good. The wedding banquet was filled with guests. [b] 11 But when the king came in to view the guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed for a wedding. (G) 12 So he said to him, 'Friend, (H) how did you get in here without wedding clothes?' The man was speechless.
13 "Then the king told the attendants, 'Tie him up hand and foot, [c] and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
14 "For many are invited, but few are chosen." (I)
Footnotes:
Matthew 22:7 Other mss read But when the (that) king heard about it he
Matthew 22:10 Lit those reclining (to eat)
Matthew 22:13 Other mss add take him away
Cross references:
Matthew 22:2 : Lk 14:16-24;
Matthew 22:2 : Mt 13:24; Lk 12:36; Jn 2:2; Rv 19:7;
Matthew 22:3 : Est 6:14; Pr 9:3;, 5;
Matthew 22:4 : Pr 9:2; Mt 21:36;
Matthew 22:8 : Mt 10:11; Ac 13:46;
Matthew 22:9 : Ezk 21:21; Ob 14;
Matthew 22:11 : Rv 19:8; 22:14;
Matthew 22:12 : Mt 20:13; 26:50;
Matthew 22:14 : Mt 20:16; Rv 17:14;
Reflection:
What can a royal wedding party tell us about God's kingdom? One of the most beautiful images of heaven in the scriptures is the banquet and wedding celebration given by the King for his son. We, in fact, have been invited to the most important banquet of all! The last book in the bible ends with an invitation to the wedding feast of the Lamb and his Bride, the church: The Spirit and the Bride say, Come! (Rev. 22:17). Why does Jesus' parable seem to focus on an angry king who ends up punishing those who refused his invitation and who mistreated his servants? Jesus' parable contains two stories. The first has to do with the original guests invited to the feast. The king had sent out invitations well in advance to his subjects, so they would have plenty of time to prepare for coming to the feast. How insulting for the invited guests to then refuse when the time for celebrating came! They made light of the King's request because they put their own interests above his. They not only insulted the King but the heir to the throne as well. The king's anger is justified because they openly refused to give the king the honor he was due. Jesus directed this warning to the Jews of his day, both to convey how much God wanted them to share in the joy of his kingdom, but also to give a warning about the consequences of refusing his Son, their Messiah and Savior.
The second part of the story focuses on those who had no claim on the king and who would never have considered getting such an invitation. The "good and the bad" along the highways certainly referred to the Gentiles and to sinners. This is certainly an invitation of grace -- undeserved, unmerited favor and kindness! But this invitation also contains a warning for those who refuse it or who approach the wedding feast unworthily. Grace is a free gift, but it is also an awesome responsibility. Dieterich Bonhoeffer contrasts "cheap grace" and "costly grace". "Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves ..the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance ..grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate. ..Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock. Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life." God invites each of us to his banquet that we may share in his joy. Are you ready to feast at the Lord's banquet table?
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Daily Word - The Good Owner - Matthew 21:28-32
Scripture:
Matthew 21:33-46 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Vineyard Owner
33 "Listen (A) to another parable: (B) There was a man, a landowner, who planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a winepress in it, and built a watchtower. (C) He leased it to tenant farmers and went away. (D) 34 When the grape harvest [a] drew near, he sent his slaves to the farmers to collect his fruit. 35 But the farmers took his slaves, beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. (E) 36 Again, he sent other slaves, more than the first group, and they did the same to them. 37 Finally, he sent his son to them. 'They will respect my son,' he said.
38 "But when the tenant farmers saw the son, they said among themselves, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him and take his inheritance! (F) ' 39 So they seized him and threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. 40 Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those farmers?"
41 "He will completely destroy those terrible men," they told Him, "and lease his vineyard to other farmers who will give him his produce at the harvest." (G) [b]
42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures:
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone. [c]
This came from the Lord
and is wonderful in our eyes ? (H) (I)
43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing its [d] fruit. 44 Whoever falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; (J) but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder!"] [e]
45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, (K) they knew He was speaking about them. 46 Although they were looking for a way to arrest Him, they feared the crowds, because they [f] regarded Him as a prophet. (L)
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:34 Lit the season of fruits
Matthew 21:41 Lit him the fruits in their seasons
Matthew 21:42 Lit the head of the corner
Matthew 21:43 The word its refers back to kingdom.
Matthew 21:44 Other mss omit this v.
Matthew 21:46 The crowds
Cross references:
Matthew 21:33 : Mk 12:1-12; Lk 20:9-19;
Matthew 21:33 : Mt 13:3, 34-36; 15:15; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 21:33 : Is 5:1-2; Lk 14:28;
Matthew 21:33 : Ps 80:8; Song 8:11-12; Mt 25:14;
Matthew 21:35 : 2Ch 24:21; Neh 9:26; Mt 5:12; 23:34;, 37; Ac 7:52; 1Th 2:15; Heb 11:36-37;
Matthew 21:38 : Ps 2:8; Heb 1:2;
Matthew 21:41 : Mt 8:11; Ac 13:46; 18:6; 28:28;
Matthew 21:42 : Ps 118:22-23; Ac 4:11; Rm 9:33; 1Pt 2:7;
Matthew 21:42 : Ps 118:22-23;
Matthew 21:44 : Is 8:14-15; Rm 9:32-33; 1Pt 2:8;
Matthew 21:45 : Mt 13:3;, 35; 15:15; 21:33; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 21:46 : Mt 26:4; Mk 11:18; Lk 19:47-48; Jn 7:25;, 30;, 44;
Reflection:
What is the point of the parable of the vineyard? Jesus’ story about an absentee landlord and his not-so-good tenants would have made sense to his audience. The hills of Galilee were lined with numerous vineyards, and it was quite common for the owners to let out their estates to tenants. Many did it for the sole purpose of collecting rent at the right time.Why did Jesus' story about wicked tenants cause offense to the scribes and Pharisees? It contained both a prophetic message and a warning. Isaiah had spoken of the house of Israel as "the vineyard of the Lord" (Isaiah 5:7). Jesus' listeners would likely understand this parable as referring to God's dealing with a stubborn and rebellious people.
This parable speaks to us today as well. It richly conveys some important truths about God and the way he deals with his people. First, it tells us of God's generosity and trust. The vineyard is well equipped with everything the tenants need. The owner went away and left the vineyard in the hands of the tenants. God, likewise trusts us enough to give us freedom to run life as we choose. This parable also tells us of God's patience and justice. Not once, but many times he forgives the tenants their debts. But while the tenants take advantage of the owner's patience, his judgment and justice prevail in the end.
Jesus foretold both his death and his ultimate triumph. He knew he would be rejected and be killed, but he also knew that would not be the end. After rejection would come glory -- the glory of resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father. The Lord blesses his people today with the gift of his kingdom. And he promises that we will bear much fruit if we abide in him (see John 15:1-11). He entrusts his gifts and grace to each of us and he gives us work to do in his vineyard — the body of Christ. He promises that our labor will not be in vain if we persevere with faith to the end (see 1 Cor. 15:58). We can expect trials and even persecution. But in the end we will see triumph. Do you labor for the Lord with joyful hope and with confidence in his victory?
Prayer For The Day:
"Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given us; for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. O most merciful redeemer, friend, and brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, for you own sake." (prayer of St. Richard of Chichester, 13th century)
Matthew 21:33-46 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Vineyard Owner
33 "Listen (A) to another parable: (B) There was a man, a landowner, who planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a winepress in it, and built a watchtower. (C) He leased it to tenant farmers and went away. (D) 34 When the grape harvest [a] drew near, he sent his slaves to the farmers to collect his fruit. 35 But the farmers took his slaves, beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. (E) 36 Again, he sent other slaves, more than the first group, and they did the same to them. 37 Finally, he sent his son to them. 'They will respect my son,' he said.
38 "But when the tenant farmers saw the son, they said among themselves, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him and take his inheritance! (F) ' 39 So they seized him and threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. 40 Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those farmers?"
41 "He will completely destroy those terrible men," they told Him, "and lease his vineyard to other farmers who will give him his produce at the harvest." (G) [b]
42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures:
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone. [c]
This came from the Lord
and is wonderful in our eyes ? (H) (I)
43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing its [d] fruit. 44 Whoever falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; (J) but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder!"] [e]
45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, (K) they knew He was speaking about them. 46 Although they were looking for a way to arrest Him, they feared the crowds, because they [f] regarded Him as a prophet. (L)
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:34 Lit the season of fruits
Matthew 21:41 Lit him the fruits in their seasons
Matthew 21:42 Lit the head of the corner
Matthew 21:43 The word its refers back to kingdom.
Matthew 21:44 Other mss omit this v.
Matthew 21:46 The crowds
Cross references:
Matthew 21:33 : Mk 12:1-12; Lk 20:9-19;
Matthew 21:33 : Mt 13:3, 34-36; 15:15; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 21:33 : Is 5:1-2; Lk 14:28;
Matthew 21:33 : Ps 80:8; Song 8:11-12; Mt 25:14;
Matthew 21:35 : 2Ch 24:21; Neh 9:26; Mt 5:12; 23:34;, 37; Ac 7:52; 1Th 2:15; Heb 11:36-37;
Matthew 21:38 : Ps 2:8; Heb 1:2;
Matthew 21:41 : Mt 8:11; Ac 13:46; 18:6; 28:28;
Matthew 21:42 : Ps 118:22-23; Ac 4:11; Rm 9:33; 1Pt 2:7;
Matthew 21:42 : Ps 118:22-23;
Matthew 21:44 : Is 8:14-15; Rm 9:32-33; 1Pt 2:8;
Matthew 21:45 : Mt 13:3;, 35; 15:15; 21:33; 22:1; 24:32;
Matthew 21:46 : Mt 26:4; Mk 11:18; Lk 19:47-48; Jn 7:25;, 30;, 44;
Reflection:
What is the point of the parable of the vineyard? Jesus’ story about an absentee landlord and his not-so-good tenants would have made sense to his audience. The hills of Galilee were lined with numerous vineyards, and it was quite common for the owners to let out their estates to tenants. Many did it for the sole purpose of collecting rent at the right time.Why did Jesus' story about wicked tenants cause offense to the scribes and Pharisees? It contained both a prophetic message and a warning. Isaiah had spoken of the house of Israel as "the vineyard of the Lord" (Isaiah 5:7). Jesus' listeners would likely understand this parable as referring to God's dealing with a stubborn and rebellious people.
This parable speaks to us today as well. It richly conveys some important truths about God and the way he deals with his people. First, it tells us of God's generosity and trust. The vineyard is well equipped with everything the tenants need. The owner went away and left the vineyard in the hands of the tenants. God, likewise trusts us enough to give us freedom to run life as we choose. This parable also tells us of God's patience and justice. Not once, but many times he forgives the tenants their debts. But while the tenants take advantage of the owner's patience, his judgment and justice prevail in the end.
Jesus foretold both his death and his ultimate triumph. He knew he would be rejected and be killed, but he also knew that would not be the end. After rejection would come glory -- the glory of resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father. The Lord blesses his people today with the gift of his kingdom. And he promises that we will bear much fruit if we abide in him (see John 15:1-11). He entrusts his gifts and grace to each of us and he gives us work to do in his vineyard — the body of Christ. He promises that our labor will not be in vain if we persevere with faith to the end (see 1 Cor. 15:58). We can expect trials and even persecution. But in the end we will see triumph. Do you labor for the Lord with joyful hope and with confidence in his victory?
Prayer For The Day:
"Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given us; for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. O most merciful redeemer, friend, and brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, for you own sake." (prayer of St. Richard of Chichester, 13th century)
Monday, March 29, 2010
Daily Word - Which Son Are You? - Matthew 21: 28-32
Scripture:
Matthew 21:28-32 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Two Sons
28 "But what do you think? A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'My son, go, work in the vineyard today. (A) '
29 "He answered, 'I don't want to!' Yet later he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the man went to the other and said the same thing.
" 'I will, sir,' he answered. But he didn't go.
31 "Which of the two did his father's will?"
"The first," they said.
Jesus said to them, "I assure you: Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you! 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness, (B) [a] and you didn't believe him. Tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him, but you, when you saw it, didn't even change your minds then and believe him.
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:32 John came preaching and practicing righteousness
Cross references:
Matthew 21:28 : Mt 20:1;
Matthew 21:32 : Pr 8:20; Mt 3:8-12; 2Pt 2:21;
Reflection:
What kind of future are you preparing for? Jesus encourages us to think -- to think about the consequences of our choices, especially the choices and decisions that will count not just for now but for eternity as well. The choices we make now will affect and shape our future, both our future on earth as well as in the life of the age to come. Jesus tells a simple story of two imperfect sons to illustrate the way of God's kingdom. The father amply provided for his sons food, lodging, and everything they needed. Everything the father had belonged to them as well. The father also rewarded his sons with excellent work in his own vineyard. He expected them to show him gratitude, loyalty, and honor by doing their fair share of the daily work. The "rebellious" son told his father to his face that he would not work for him. But afterwards he changed his mind and did what he father commanded him. The "good" son said he would work for his father, but didn't carry through. He did his own pleasure contrary to his father's will. Now who was really the good son? Both sons disobeyed their father; but one repented and then did what the father told him. Jesus makes his point clear: Good intentions are not enough. And promises don't count unless they are performed. God wants to change our hearts so that we will show by our speech and by our actions that we respect his will and do it. God offers each of us the greatest treasure possible– unending peace, joy, happiness, and life with him in his kingdom. We can lose that treasure if we refuse the grace God offers us to follow in his way of truth and righteousness. Do you respect the will of your Father in heaven?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, change my heart that I may only desire that which is pleasing to you. Help me to respect your will and give me the strength, joy and perseverance to carry it out wholeheartedly.
Matthew 21:28-32 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Two Sons
28 "But what do you think? A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'My son, go, work in the vineyard today. (A) '
29 "He answered, 'I don't want to!' Yet later he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the man went to the other and said the same thing.
" 'I will, sir,' he answered. But he didn't go.
31 "Which of the two did his father's will?"
"The first," they said.
Jesus said to them, "I assure you: Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you! 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness, (B) [a] and you didn't believe him. Tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him, but you, when you saw it, didn't even change your minds then and believe him.
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:32 John came preaching and practicing righteousness
Cross references:
Matthew 21:28 : Mt 20:1;
Matthew 21:32 : Pr 8:20; Mt 3:8-12; 2Pt 2:21;
Reflection:
What kind of future are you preparing for? Jesus encourages us to think -- to think about the consequences of our choices, especially the choices and decisions that will count not just for now but for eternity as well. The choices we make now will affect and shape our future, both our future on earth as well as in the life of the age to come. Jesus tells a simple story of two imperfect sons to illustrate the way of God's kingdom. The father amply provided for his sons food, lodging, and everything they needed. Everything the father had belonged to them as well. The father also rewarded his sons with excellent work in his own vineyard. He expected them to show him gratitude, loyalty, and honor by doing their fair share of the daily work. The "rebellious" son told his father to his face that he would not work for him. But afterwards he changed his mind and did what he father commanded him. The "good" son said he would work for his father, but didn't carry through. He did his own pleasure contrary to his father's will. Now who was really the good son? Both sons disobeyed their father; but one repented and then did what the father told him. Jesus makes his point clear: Good intentions are not enough. And promises don't count unless they are performed. God wants to change our hearts so that we will show by our speech and by our actions that we respect his will and do it. God offers each of us the greatest treasure possible– unending peace, joy, happiness, and life with him in his kingdom. We can lose that treasure if we refuse the grace God offers us to follow in his way of truth and righteousness. Do you respect the will of your Father in heaven?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, change my heart that I may only desire that which is pleasing to you. Help me to respect your will and give me the strength, joy and perseverance to carry it out wholeheartedly.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Daily Word - Challenged Authority - Matthew 21: 23-27
Scripture:
Matthew 21:23-27 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Messiah's Authority Challenged
23 When He entered the temple complex, (A) the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to Him as He was teaching and said, "By what authority are You doing these things? Who gave You this authority?" (B)
24 Jesus answered them, "I will also ask you one question, and if you answer it for Me, then I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 Where did John's baptism come from? From heaven or from men?"
They began to argue among themselves, "If we say, 'From heaven,' He will say to us, 'Then why didn't you believe him? (C) ' 26 But if we say, 'From men,' we're afraid of the crowd, (D) because everyone thought John was a prophet." (E) 27 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know."
And He said to them, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.
Cross references:
Matthew 21:23 : Mk 11:27-33; Lk 20:1-8;
Matthew 21:23 : Ex 2:14; Mt 26:55; Ac 4:7; 7:27;
Matthew 21:25 : Mt 13:54; Lk 7:30; 15:18;, 21; Jn 3:27;
Matthew 21:26 : Mt 14:5; 21:46; Mk 11:32; 12:12;
Matthew 21:26 : Mt 11:9; Mk 6:20;
Refletion:
Are you willing to take a stand for the truth, even when it costs? Or do you look for the safe way out? Jesus told his disciples that the truth would make them free (John 8:32). Why were the religious leaders opposed to Jesus' and evasive with the truth? Did they fear the praise of their friends and neighbors more than the praise of God for those who stand up to his truth? The coming of God's kingdom or reign on the earth will inevitably produce conflict -- a conflict of allegiance to God's will or my will, God's way of love and justice or the world's way of playing fair, God's standard of absolute moral truth or truth relative to what I want to believe is good and useful for the time being. Why did the religious leaders oppose Jesus and reject his claim to divine authority? Their view of religion did not match with God's word because their hearts were set on personal gain rather than truth and submission to God's plan and design for their lives. They openly questioned Jesus to discredit his claim to be the Messiah. If Jesus says his authority is divine they will charge him with blasphemy. If he has done this on his own authority they might well arrest him as a mad zealot before he could do more damage. Jesus, seeing through their trap, poses a question to them and makes their answer a condition for his answer. Did they accept the work of John the Baptist as divine or human? If they accepted John's work as divine, they would be compelled to accept Jesus as the Messiah. They dodged the question because they were unwilling to face the truth. They did not accept the Baptist and they would not accept Jesus as their Messiah. Do you know the joy and freedom of living according to God's truth?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let your light shine in my heart and mind that I may know your truth and will for my life and find freedom and joy in living according to it.
Matthew 21:23-27 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Messiah's Authority Challenged
23 When He entered the temple complex, (A) the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to Him as He was teaching and said, "By what authority are You doing these things? Who gave You this authority?" (B)
24 Jesus answered them, "I will also ask you one question, and if you answer it for Me, then I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 Where did John's baptism come from? From heaven or from men?"
They began to argue among themselves, "If we say, 'From heaven,' He will say to us, 'Then why didn't you believe him? (C) ' 26 But if we say, 'From men,' we're afraid of the crowd, (D) because everyone thought John was a prophet." (E) 27 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know."
And He said to them, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.
Cross references:
Matthew 21:23 : Mk 11:27-33; Lk 20:1-8;
Matthew 21:23 : Ex 2:14; Mt 26:55; Ac 4:7; 7:27;
Matthew 21:25 : Mt 13:54; Lk 7:30; 15:18;, 21; Jn 3:27;
Matthew 21:26 : Mt 14:5; 21:46; Mk 11:32; 12:12;
Matthew 21:26 : Mt 11:9; Mk 6:20;
Refletion:
Are you willing to take a stand for the truth, even when it costs? Or do you look for the safe way out? Jesus told his disciples that the truth would make them free (John 8:32). Why were the religious leaders opposed to Jesus' and evasive with the truth? Did they fear the praise of their friends and neighbors more than the praise of God for those who stand up to his truth? The coming of God's kingdom or reign on the earth will inevitably produce conflict -- a conflict of allegiance to God's will or my will, God's way of love and justice or the world's way of playing fair, God's standard of absolute moral truth or truth relative to what I want to believe is good and useful for the time being. Why did the religious leaders oppose Jesus and reject his claim to divine authority? Their view of religion did not match with God's word because their hearts were set on personal gain rather than truth and submission to God's plan and design for their lives. They openly questioned Jesus to discredit his claim to be the Messiah. If Jesus says his authority is divine they will charge him with blasphemy. If he has done this on his own authority they might well arrest him as a mad zealot before he could do more damage. Jesus, seeing through their trap, poses a question to them and makes their answer a condition for his answer. Did they accept the work of John the Baptist as divine or human? If they accepted John's work as divine, they would be compelled to accept Jesus as the Messiah. They dodged the question because they were unwilling to face the truth. They did not accept the Baptist and they would not accept Jesus as their Messiah. Do you know the joy and freedom of living according to God's truth?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let your light shine in my heart and mind that I may know your truth and will for my life and find freedom and joy in living according to it.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Daily Word - Figs - Matthew 21:18-22
Scripture:
Matthew 21:18-22 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Barren Fig Tree
18 Early in the morning, (A) as He was returning to the city, He was hungry. 19 Seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He went up to it and found nothing on it except leaves. And He said to it, "May no fruit ever come from you again!" At once the fig tree withered.
20 When the disciples saw it, they were amazed and said, "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?"
21 Jesus answered them, " I assure you: If you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you tell this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' it will be done. (B) 22 And if you believe, you will receive (C) whatever you ask for in prayer."
Cross references:
Matthew 21:18 : Mk 11:12-14;, 20-24;
Matthew 21:21 : Mt 17:20; Lk 17:6; 1Co 13:2; Jms 1:6;
Matthew 21:22 : Mt 7:7-8; Jn 11:22;
Reflection:
Why did Jesus curse a fig tree? Fig trees were a common and important source of food for the Jews. Bad figs or a decaying fig tree was linked with evil deeds and spiritual decay. The unfruitful fig tree symbolized the outcome of Israel's unresponsiveness to the word of God. The prophets depicted the languishing fig tree as signifying the desolation and calamity of Israel due to her unfaithfulness to God (see Joel 1:7,12; Habakuk 3:17; and Jeremiah 8:13). The history of Israel is one long preparation for the coming of the Promised One. But the promise is unfulfilled in those who reject Jesus through unbelief. (See also Jesus’ parable of the barren fig tree in Luke 13:6-9). Jesus’ cursing of a fig tree is a prophetic action against the faithlessness of those who rejected his message. For faith to be fruitful and productive, it must be nourished with the word of God (2 Tim. 3:16; Col. 3:16)and be rooted in love (Galatians 5:6).
After this incident Jesus exhorts his disciples to “have faith in God”. They are to pray with expectant faith no matter how difficult the situation may be. The phrase “to remove mountains” was a common Jewish expression for removing difficulties. A wise teacher who could solve difficulties was called a “mountain remover”. If we pray with faith God will give us the means to overcome difficulties and obstacles. If we want God to hear our prayers we must forgive those who wrong us as God has forgiven us. Do you pray with expectant faith?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord increase my faith and make my fruitful and effective in serving you. Help me to forgive others just as you have been merciful towards me.
Matthew 21:18-22 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Barren Fig Tree
18 Early in the morning, (A) as He was returning to the city, He was hungry. 19 Seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He went up to it and found nothing on it except leaves. And He said to it, "May no fruit ever come from you again!" At once the fig tree withered.
20 When the disciples saw it, they were amazed and said, "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?"
21 Jesus answered them, " I assure you: If you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you tell this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' it will be done. (B) 22 And if you believe, you will receive (C) whatever you ask for in prayer."
Cross references:
Matthew 21:18 : Mk 11:12-14;, 20-24;
Matthew 21:21 : Mt 17:20; Lk 17:6; 1Co 13:2; Jms 1:6;
Matthew 21:22 : Mt 7:7-8; Jn 11:22;
Reflection:
Why did Jesus curse a fig tree? Fig trees were a common and important source of food for the Jews. Bad figs or a decaying fig tree was linked with evil deeds and spiritual decay. The unfruitful fig tree symbolized the outcome of Israel's unresponsiveness to the word of God. The prophets depicted the languishing fig tree as signifying the desolation and calamity of Israel due to her unfaithfulness to God (see Joel 1:7,12; Habakuk 3:17; and Jeremiah 8:13). The history of Israel is one long preparation for the coming of the Promised One. But the promise is unfulfilled in those who reject Jesus through unbelief. (See also Jesus’ parable of the barren fig tree in Luke 13:6-9). Jesus’ cursing of a fig tree is a prophetic action against the faithlessness of those who rejected his message. For faith to be fruitful and productive, it must be nourished with the word of God (2 Tim. 3:16; Col. 3:16)and be rooted in love (Galatians 5:6).
After this incident Jesus exhorts his disciples to “have faith in God”. They are to pray with expectant faith no matter how difficult the situation may be. The phrase “to remove mountains” was a common Jewish expression for removing difficulties. A wise teacher who could solve difficulties was called a “mountain remover”. If we pray with faith God will give us the means to overcome difficulties and obstacles. If we want God to hear our prayers we must forgive those who wrong us as God has forgiven us. Do you pray with expectant faith?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord increase my faith and make my fruitful and effective in serving you. Help me to forgive others just as you have been merciful towards me.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Daily Word - The King Is Here! - Matthew 21: 1-17
Scripture:
Matthew 21:1-17 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Triumphal Entry
Matthew 21
1 When they approached Jerusalem (A) and came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives, (B) Jesus then sent two disciples, 2 telling them, "Go into the village ahead of you. At once you will find a donkey tied there, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to Me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you should say that the Lord needs them, and immediately he will send them."
4 This took place so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
5 Tell Daughter Zion,
"See, your King is coming to you,
gentle, and mounted on a donkey,
even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden." (C) (D)
6 The disciples went and did just as Jesus directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt; then they laid their robes on them, and He sat on them. 8 A very large crowd spread their robes on the road; others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. 9 Then the crowds who went ahead of Him and those who followed kept shouting:
Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is He who comes
in the name of the Lord! (E)
Hosanna in the highest heaven! (F)
10 When He entered Jerusalem, the whole city was shaken, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the crowds kept saying, "This is the prophet Jesus (G) from Nazareth in Galilee!"
Cleansing the Temple Complex
12 Jesus went into the temple complex (H) [a] and drove out all those buying and selling in the temple. He overturned the money changers' tables and the chairs of those selling doves. (I) 13 And He said to them, "It is written, My house will be called a house of prayer. (J) But you are making it a den of thieves! " (K) (L)
Children Cheer Jesus
14 The blind and the lame came to Him in the temple complex, and He healed them. 15 When the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonders that He did and the children in the temple complex cheering, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" they were indignant 16 and said to Him, "Do You hear what these [children] are saying?"
"Yes," Jesus told them. "Have you never read:
You have prepared [b] praise (M)
from the mouths of children and nursing infants ?" (N)
17 Then He left them, went out of the city to Bethany, (O) and spent the night there.
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:12 Other mss add of God
Matthew 21:16 Or restored
Cross references:
Matthew 21:1 : Mk 11:1-10; Lk 19:28-38; Jn 12:12-19;
Matthew 21:1 : Zch 14:4; Mt 24:3; 26:30; Lk 19:29, 37; 21:37; Jn 8:1; Ac 1:12;
Matthew 21:5 : Is 62:11; Zch 9:9;
Matthew 21:5 : Is 62:11; Zch 9:9;
Matthew 21:9 : Ps 118:25-26;
Matthew 21:9 : Ps 118:25; Mt 9:27; 23:39; Lk 2:14;
Matthew 21:11 : Mk 6:15; Lk 7:16; 13:33; 24:19; Jn 1:21; 4:19; 6:14;
Matthew 21:12 : Mk 11:15-18; Lk 19:45-47; Jn 2:14-16;
Matthew 21:12 : Ex 30:13; Lv 1:14; 5:7; 12:8; Dt 14:25;
Matthew 21:13 : Is 56:7;
Matthew 21:13 : Is 56:7; Jr 7:11;
Matthew 21:13 : Jr 7:11;
Matthew 21:16 : Ps 8:2; Mt 11:25; 12:3, 5; 19:4; 22:31;
Matthew 21:16 : Ps 8:3;
Matthew 21:17 : Mt 26:6; Mk 11:1; Lk 19:29; 24:50; Jn 11:18;
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Reflection:
Does the King of glory find a welcome entry in your heart and home? Jesus went to Jerusalem knowing full well what awaited him -- betrayal, rejection, and crucifixion. The people of Jerusalem, however, were ready to hail him as their Messianic King! Little did they know what it would cost this king to usher in his kingdom. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem astride a colt was a direct fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy of Zechariah (9:9): Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion. Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem. Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, and riding on an ass and upon a colt the foal of an ass. The colt was a sign of peace. Jesus enters Jerusalem in meekness and humility, as the Messianic King who brings victory and peace to his people. That victory and peace would be secured in the cross and resurrection which would take place in a matter of days at the time of Passover.
Augustine, the great 5th century church father, comments on the significance of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem: "The master of humility is Christ who humbled himself and became obedient even to death, even the death of the cross. Thus he does not lose his divinity when he teaches us humility. ..What great thing was it to the king of the ages to become the king of humanity? For Christ was not the king of Israel so that he might exact a tax or equip an army with weaponry and visibly vanquish an enemy. He was the king of Israel in that he rules minds, in that he gives counsel for eternity, in that he leads into the kingdom of heaven for those who believe, hope, and love. It is a condescension, not an advancement for one who is the Son of God, equal to the Father, the Word through whom all things were made, to become king of Israel. It is an indication of pity, not an increase in power." [Tractates on John 51.3-4]
Psalm 24 is another prophetic passage which echoes this triumphal procession of the King of glory: Lift up your heads, O gates! and be lifted up, O ancient doors! that the King of glory may come in. Jesus Christ came to bring us the kingdom of God. He is the true King who offers peace, joy, and everlasting life for those who accept his kingship. Do you give the Lord Jesus full reign in your heart and in your home? And do your walls echo with the praise of his glory?
Jesus’ dramatic cleansing of the temple was seen by his disciples as a prophetic sign of God’s action. The temple was understood as the dwelling place of God among his people. When God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt, he brought them through the sea, and finally to Mount Sinai where he made a covenant with them and gave them a new way of life embodied in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17). God gave Moses instruction for worship and for making the Tabernacle, or tent of meeting, which was later replaced by the temple. The New Testament tells us that these “serve as a copy and shadow of the heavenly sanctuary” – God’s Temple in heaven (Hebrews 8:5).
Jesus referred to the temple as his Father’s house which was being made into “house of trade” (John 2:16) or “den of robbers” (Matthew 21:13; Mark 11:17). That is why he used physical force to expel the money-chargers. The prophecy of Malachi foretold the coming of the Lord unexpectedly to his Temple to “purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, till they present right offerings to the Lord” (Malachi3:1-4). His act of judgment in the temple is meant to be a prophetic sign and warning to the people that God takes our worship very seriously. In this incident we see Jesus' startling and swift action in cleansing the temple of those who were using it to exploit the worshipers of God. The money changers took advantage of the poor and forced them to pay many times more than was right— in the house of the Lord no less! Their robbery of the poor was not only dishonoring to God but unjust toward their neighbor. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple is also a prophetic sign of what he wants to do with each of us. He ever seeks to cleanse us of sin and make us living temples of his Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19). Do you thirst for holiness?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, be the King and Ruler of my heart, mind, life, and home. May my life reflect your meekness and humility that you may be honored as the King of glory!
Matthew 21:1-17 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Triumphal Entry
Matthew 21
1 When they approached Jerusalem (A) and came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives, (B) Jesus then sent two disciples, 2 telling them, "Go into the village ahead of you. At once you will find a donkey tied there, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to Me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you should say that the Lord needs them, and immediately he will send them."
4 This took place so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
5 Tell Daughter Zion,
"See, your King is coming to you,
gentle, and mounted on a donkey,
even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden." (C) (D)
6 The disciples went and did just as Jesus directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt; then they laid their robes on them, and He sat on them. 8 A very large crowd spread their robes on the road; others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. 9 Then the crowds who went ahead of Him and those who followed kept shouting:
Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is He who comes
in the name of the Lord! (E)
Hosanna in the highest heaven! (F)
10 When He entered Jerusalem, the whole city was shaken, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the crowds kept saying, "This is the prophet Jesus (G) from Nazareth in Galilee!"
Cleansing the Temple Complex
12 Jesus went into the temple complex (H) [a] and drove out all those buying and selling in the temple. He overturned the money changers' tables and the chairs of those selling doves. (I) 13 And He said to them, "It is written, My house will be called a house of prayer. (J) But you are making it a den of thieves! " (K) (L)
Children Cheer Jesus
14 The blind and the lame came to Him in the temple complex, and He healed them. 15 When the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonders that He did and the children in the temple complex cheering, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" they were indignant 16 and said to Him, "Do You hear what these [children] are saying?"
"Yes," Jesus told them. "Have you never read:
You have prepared [b] praise (M)
from the mouths of children and nursing infants ?" (N)
17 Then He left them, went out of the city to Bethany, (O) and spent the night there.
Footnotes:
Matthew 21:12 Other mss add of God
Matthew 21:16 Or restored
Cross references:
Matthew 21:1 : Mk 11:1-10; Lk 19:28-38; Jn 12:12-19;
Matthew 21:1 : Zch 14:4; Mt 24:3; 26:30; Lk 19:29, 37; 21:37; Jn 8:1; Ac 1:12;
Matthew 21:5 : Is 62:11; Zch 9:9;
Matthew 21:5 : Is 62:11; Zch 9:9;
Matthew 21:9 : Ps 118:25-26;
Matthew 21:9 : Ps 118:25; Mt 9:27; 23:39; Lk 2:14;
Matthew 21:11 : Mk 6:15; Lk 7:16; 13:33; 24:19; Jn 1:21; 4:19; 6:14;
Matthew 21:12 : Mk 11:15-18; Lk 19:45-47; Jn 2:14-16;
Matthew 21:12 : Ex 30:13; Lv 1:14; 5:7; 12:8; Dt 14:25;
Matthew 21:13 : Is 56:7;
Matthew 21:13 : Is 56:7; Jr 7:11;
Matthew 21:13 : Jr 7:11;
Matthew 21:16 : Ps 8:2; Mt 11:25; 12:3, 5; 19:4; 22:31;
Matthew 21:16 : Ps 8:3;
Matthew 21:17 : Mt 26:6; Mk 11:1; Lk 19:29; 24:50; Jn 11:18;
Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
Reflection:
Does the King of glory find a welcome entry in your heart and home? Jesus went to Jerusalem knowing full well what awaited him -- betrayal, rejection, and crucifixion. The people of Jerusalem, however, were ready to hail him as their Messianic King! Little did they know what it would cost this king to usher in his kingdom. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem astride a colt was a direct fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy of Zechariah (9:9): Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion. Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem. Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, and riding on an ass and upon a colt the foal of an ass. The colt was a sign of peace. Jesus enters Jerusalem in meekness and humility, as the Messianic King who brings victory and peace to his people. That victory and peace would be secured in the cross and resurrection which would take place in a matter of days at the time of Passover.
Augustine, the great 5th century church father, comments on the significance of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem: "The master of humility is Christ who humbled himself and became obedient even to death, even the death of the cross. Thus he does not lose his divinity when he teaches us humility. ..What great thing was it to the king of the ages to become the king of humanity? For Christ was not the king of Israel so that he might exact a tax or equip an army with weaponry and visibly vanquish an enemy. He was the king of Israel in that he rules minds, in that he gives counsel for eternity, in that he leads into the kingdom of heaven for those who believe, hope, and love. It is a condescension, not an advancement for one who is the Son of God, equal to the Father, the Word through whom all things were made, to become king of Israel. It is an indication of pity, not an increase in power." [Tractates on John 51.3-4]
Psalm 24 is another prophetic passage which echoes this triumphal procession of the King of glory: Lift up your heads, O gates! and be lifted up, O ancient doors! that the King of glory may come in. Jesus Christ came to bring us the kingdom of God. He is the true King who offers peace, joy, and everlasting life for those who accept his kingship. Do you give the Lord Jesus full reign in your heart and in your home? And do your walls echo with the praise of his glory?
Jesus’ dramatic cleansing of the temple was seen by his disciples as a prophetic sign of God’s action. The temple was understood as the dwelling place of God among his people. When God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt, he brought them through the sea, and finally to Mount Sinai where he made a covenant with them and gave them a new way of life embodied in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17). God gave Moses instruction for worship and for making the Tabernacle, or tent of meeting, which was later replaced by the temple. The New Testament tells us that these “serve as a copy and shadow of the heavenly sanctuary” – God’s Temple in heaven (Hebrews 8:5).
Jesus referred to the temple as his Father’s house which was being made into “house of trade” (John 2:16) or “den of robbers” (Matthew 21:13; Mark 11:17). That is why he used physical force to expel the money-chargers. The prophecy of Malachi foretold the coming of the Lord unexpectedly to his Temple to “purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, till they present right offerings to the Lord” (Malachi3:1-4). His act of judgment in the temple is meant to be a prophetic sign and warning to the people that God takes our worship very seriously. In this incident we see Jesus' startling and swift action in cleansing the temple of those who were using it to exploit the worshipers of God. The money changers took advantage of the poor and forced them to pay many times more than was right— in the house of the Lord no less! Their robbery of the poor was not only dishonoring to God but unjust toward their neighbor. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple is also a prophetic sign of what he wants to do with each of us. He ever seeks to cleanse us of sin and make us living temples of his Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19). Do you thirst for holiness?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, be the King and Ruler of my heart, mind, life, and home. May my life reflect your meekness and humility that you may be honored as the King of glory!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Daily Word - What Would You Do? - Matthew 20:29-34
Scripture:
Matthew 20:29-34 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Two Blind Men Healed
29 As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. (A) 30 There were two blind men sitting by the road. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" 31 The crowd told them to keep quiet, but they cried out all the more, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" (B)
32 Jesus stopped, called them, and said, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
33 "Lord," they said to Him, "open our eyes!" 34 Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes. Immediately they could see, and they followed Him.
Cross references:
Matthew 20:29 : Mk 10:46-52; Lk 18:35-43;
Matthew 20:31 : Mt 9:27; 21:9; 22:42;
Reflection:
If Jesus were to pass through your neighborhood today, what would you do? Climb a tree like Zacchaeus to get a good view? Or cry out with a loud voice, like the two blind beggars who met him on the road to Jerico? Matthew tells us that the two blind men recognized Jesus as the Son of David. The Jews understood this expression as a title for the Messiah. These men had "eyes of faith" to recognize that Jesus could change their lives and their circumstances if they simply asked for his mercy and help. It must of have taken some "guts" and persistence to get the attention of Jesus over the din of a noisy throng who crowded around Jesus as he made his way out of town. Why was the crowd annoyed with the persistent shouts of these beggars? They were interrupting Jesus' discourse and destroying the peace. It was common for a rabbi to teach as he walked with others. Jesus was on his way to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem and a band of pilgrims followed him. When the crowd tried to silence these blind men they overpowered the crowd with their emotional outburst and thus caught the attention of Jesus.
This incident reveals something important about how God interacts with us. The blind men were determined to get Jesus' attention and they were persistent in the face of opposition. Jesus could have ignored or rebuffed them because they were disturbing his talk and his audience. Jesus showed that acting was more important than talking. They were in desperate need and Jesus was ready, not only to empathize with their suffering, but to relieve it as well. A great speaker can command attention and respect, but a man or woman with a helping hand and a big heart is loved more.
Jesus put a question to them: "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus wanted to test their earnestness and strengthen their trust in his power. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. He restored their sight -- both physically and spiritually to the reality of his kingdom. Faith opens the way for us to see the power of God’s kingdom and to experience his healing presence in our lives. The word mercy literally means "sorrowful at heart". But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune. Compassion empathizes with the sufferer. But mercy goes further; it removes suffering. A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were his own. In Jesus we see the fulness of God's mercy and the power of his kingdom -- power to save from death and destruction, to forgive sins and lift the burden of guilt, and to heal infirmities and release the oppressed. Jesus never refused to bring God's mercy to those who earnestly sought it.
How can we seek and obtain God's mercy? God gives mercy to the lowly in heart -- to those who recognize their need for God and for his forgiveness and healing power. Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the power of his love. For faith to be effective it must be linked with trust and obedience -- an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever he commands. Do you recognize your need for God's healing grace and do you seek Jesus out, like these blind beggars, with persistent faith and trust in his goodness and mercy?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, help me to draw near to you with confidence and trust in your saving power and mercy. Free me from doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith. Let your kingdom come and may your will be done in me.
Matthew 20:29-34 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Two Blind Men Healed
29 As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. (A) 30 There were two blind men sitting by the road. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" 31 The crowd told them to keep quiet, but they cried out all the more, "Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!" (B)
32 Jesus stopped, called them, and said, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
33 "Lord," they said to Him, "open our eyes!" 34 Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes. Immediately they could see, and they followed Him.
Cross references:
Matthew 20:29 : Mk 10:46-52; Lk 18:35-43;
Matthew 20:31 : Mt 9:27; 21:9; 22:42;
Reflection:
If Jesus were to pass through your neighborhood today, what would you do? Climb a tree like Zacchaeus to get a good view? Or cry out with a loud voice, like the two blind beggars who met him on the road to Jerico? Matthew tells us that the two blind men recognized Jesus as the Son of David. The Jews understood this expression as a title for the Messiah. These men had "eyes of faith" to recognize that Jesus could change their lives and their circumstances if they simply asked for his mercy and help. It must of have taken some "guts" and persistence to get the attention of Jesus over the din of a noisy throng who crowded around Jesus as he made his way out of town. Why was the crowd annoyed with the persistent shouts of these beggars? They were interrupting Jesus' discourse and destroying the peace. It was common for a rabbi to teach as he walked with others. Jesus was on his way to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem and a band of pilgrims followed him. When the crowd tried to silence these blind men they overpowered the crowd with their emotional outburst and thus caught the attention of Jesus.
This incident reveals something important about how God interacts with us. The blind men were determined to get Jesus' attention and they were persistent in the face of opposition. Jesus could have ignored or rebuffed them because they were disturbing his talk and his audience. Jesus showed that acting was more important than talking. They were in desperate need and Jesus was ready, not only to empathize with their suffering, but to relieve it as well. A great speaker can command attention and respect, but a man or woman with a helping hand and a big heart is loved more.
Jesus put a question to them: "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus wanted to test their earnestness and strengthen their trust in his power. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. He restored their sight -- both physically and spiritually to the reality of his kingdom. Faith opens the way for us to see the power of God’s kingdom and to experience his healing presence in our lives. The word mercy literally means "sorrowful at heart". But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune. Compassion empathizes with the sufferer. But mercy goes further; it removes suffering. A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were his own. In Jesus we see the fulness of God's mercy and the power of his kingdom -- power to save from death and destruction, to forgive sins and lift the burden of guilt, and to heal infirmities and release the oppressed. Jesus never refused to bring God's mercy to those who earnestly sought it.
How can we seek and obtain God's mercy? God gives mercy to the lowly in heart -- to those who recognize their need for God and for his forgiveness and healing power. Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the power of his love. For faith to be effective it must be linked with trust and obedience -- an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever he commands. Do you recognize your need for God's healing grace and do you seek Jesus out, like these blind beggars, with persistent faith and trust in his goodness and mercy?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, help me to draw near to you with confidence and trust in your saving power and mercy. Free me from doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith. Let your kingdom come and may your will be done in me.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Daily Word - Sacrificial Love - Matthew 20:17-28
Scripture:
Matthew 20:17-28 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Third Prediction of His Death
17 While going up to Jerusalem, (A) Jesus took the 12 disciples aside privately and said to them on the way: 18 "Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn Him to death. (B) 19 Then they will hand Him over to the Gentiles (C) to be mocked, flogged, [a] and crucified, and He will be resurrected [b] on the third day."
Suffering and Service
20 Then the mother of Zebedee's sons approached Him with her sons. (D) She knelt down to ask Him for something. (E) 21 "What do you want?" He asked her.
"Promise," [c] she said to Him, "that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right and the other on Your left, in Your kingdom." (F)
22 But Jesus answered, "You don't know what you're asking. Are you able to drink the cup [d] that I am about to drink?" (G) [e]
"We are able," they said to Him.
23 He told them, "You will indeed drink My cup. [f] But to sit at My right and left is not Mine to give; instead, it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by My Father." (H) 24 When the 10 [disciples] heard this, they became indignant with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them over and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles dominate them, and the men of high position exercise power over them. 26 It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, (I) 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, (J) and to give His life—a ransom for many." (K)
Footnotes:
Matthew 20:19 Or scourged
Matthew 20:19 Other mss read will rise again
Matthew 20:21 Lit Say
Matthew 20:22 Figurative language referring to His coming suffering; [Mt 26:39]; [Jn 18:11]
Matthew 20:22 Other mss add and (or) to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with
Matthew 20:23 Other mss add and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with
Cross references:
Matthew 20:17 : Mk 10:32-34; Lk 18:31-33;
Matthew 20:18 : Mt 16:21; 26:66; Jn 19:7;
Matthew 20:19 : Mt 27:2; Ac 2:23; 3:13; 4:27; 21:11;
Matthew 20:20 : Mk 10:35-45; Lk 22:24-27;
Matthew 20:20 : Mt 4:21; 8:2;
Matthew 20:21 : Mt 16:28; 19:28; 25:31;, 34; Lk 23:42;
Matthew 20:22 : Is 51:22; Jr 49:12; Mk 14:36;
Matthew 20:23 : Ac 12:2; Rv 1:9;
Matthew 20:26 : Mt 23:11; Mk 9:35;
Matthew 20:28 : Lk 22:27; Jn 13:13-15; 2Co 8:9; Php 2:7;
Matthew 20:28 : Mt 26:28; 1Tm 2:6; Ti 2:14; Heb 9:28;
Reflection:
Jesus did the unthinkable! He wedded authority with service and with sacrifice — the sacrifice of one's life for the sake of another. Authority without sacrificial love is brutish and self-serving. Jesus also used stark language to explain what kind of sacrifice he had in mind. His disciples must drink his cup if they expect to reign with him in his kingdom. The cup he had in mind was a bitter one involving crucifixion. What kind of cup does the Lord have in mind for us? For some disciples such a cup entails physical suffering and the painful struggle of martyrdom. But for many, it entails the long routine of the Christian life, with all its daily sacrifices, disappointments, set-backs, struggles, and temptations. A disciple must be ready to lay down his or her life in martyrdom and be ready to lay it down each and every day in the little and big sacrifices required. An early church father summed up Jesus' teaching with the expression: to serve is to reign with Christ. We share in God's reign by laying down our lives in humble service of one another as Jesus did for our sake. Are you ready to lay down your life and to serve others as Jesus did?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, make me a servant of love for your kingdom, that I may seek to serve rather than be served. Inflame my heart with love that I may give generously and serve joyfully for your sake.
Matthew 20:17-28 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Third Prediction of His Death
17 While going up to Jerusalem, (A) Jesus took the 12 disciples aside privately and said to them on the way: 18 "Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn Him to death. (B) 19 Then they will hand Him over to the Gentiles (C) to be mocked, flogged, [a] and crucified, and He will be resurrected [b] on the third day."
Suffering and Service
20 Then the mother of Zebedee's sons approached Him with her sons. (D) She knelt down to ask Him for something. (E) 21 "What do you want?" He asked her.
"Promise," [c] she said to Him, "that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right and the other on Your left, in Your kingdom." (F)
22 But Jesus answered, "You don't know what you're asking. Are you able to drink the cup [d] that I am about to drink?" (G) [e]
"We are able," they said to Him.
23 He told them, "You will indeed drink My cup. [f] But to sit at My right and left is not Mine to give; instead, it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by My Father." (H) 24 When the 10 [disciples] heard this, they became indignant with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them over and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles dominate them, and the men of high position exercise power over them. 26 It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, (I) 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, (J) and to give His life—a ransom for many." (K)
Footnotes:
Matthew 20:19 Or scourged
Matthew 20:19 Other mss read will rise again
Matthew 20:21 Lit Say
Matthew 20:22 Figurative language referring to His coming suffering; [Mt 26:39]; [Jn 18:11]
Matthew 20:22 Other mss add and (or) to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with
Matthew 20:23 Other mss add and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with
Cross references:
Matthew 20:17 : Mk 10:32-34; Lk 18:31-33;
Matthew 20:18 : Mt 16:21; 26:66; Jn 19:7;
Matthew 20:19 : Mt 27:2; Ac 2:23; 3:13; 4:27; 21:11;
Matthew 20:20 : Mk 10:35-45; Lk 22:24-27;
Matthew 20:20 : Mt 4:21; 8:2;
Matthew 20:21 : Mt 16:28; 19:28; 25:31;, 34; Lk 23:42;
Matthew 20:22 : Is 51:22; Jr 49:12; Mk 14:36;
Matthew 20:23 : Ac 12:2; Rv 1:9;
Matthew 20:26 : Mt 23:11; Mk 9:35;
Matthew 20:28 : Lk 22:27; Jn 13:13-15; 2Co 8:9; Php 2:7;
Matthew 20:28 : Mt 26:28; 1Tm 2:6; Ti 2:14; Heb 9:28;
Reflection:
Jesus did the unthinkable! He wedded authority with service and with sacrifice — the sacrifice of one's life for the sake of another. Authority without sacrificial love is brutish and self-serving. Jesus also used stark language to explain what kind of sacrifice he had in mind. His disciples must drink his cup if they expect to reign with him in his kingdom. The cup he had in mind was a bitter one involving crucifixion. What kind of cup does the Lord have in mind for us? For some disciples such a cup entails physical suffering and the painful struggle of martyrdom. But for many, it entails the long routine of the Christian life, with all its daily sacrifices, disappointments, set-backs, struggles, and temptations. A disciple must be ready to lay down his or her life in martyrdom and be ready to lay it down each and every day in the little and big sacrifices required. An early church father summed up Jesus' teaching with the expression: to serve is to reign with Christ. We share in God's reign by laying down our lives in humble service of one another as Jesus did for our sake. Are you ready to lay down your life and to serve others as Jesus did?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus, make me a servant of love for your kingdom, that I may seek to serve rather than be served. Inflame my heart with love that I may give generously and serve joyfully for your sake.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Daily Word - The Creator's Generosity - Matthew 20:1-16
Scripture:
Matthew 20:1-16 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Vineyard Workers
Matthew 20 - 1 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. (A) 2 After agreeing with the workers on one denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 When he went out about nine in the morning, [a] he saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4 To those men he said, 'You also go to my vineyard, and I'll give you whatever is right.' So off they went. 5 About noon and at three, [b] he went out again and did the same thing. 6 Then about five [c] he went and found others standing around, [d] and said to them, 'Why have you been standing here all day doing nothing?'
7 " 'Because no one hired us,' they said to him.
" 'You also go to my vineyard,' he told them. [e] 8 When evening came, the owner of the vineyard told his foreman, 'Call the workers and give them their pay, (B) starting with the last and ending with the first.' [f]
9 "When those who were hired about five [g] came, they each received one denarius. 10 So when the first ones came, they assumed they would get more, but they also received a denarius each. 11 When they received it, they began to complain to the landowner: 12 'These last men put in one hour, and you made them equal to us who bore the burden of the day and the burning heat! (C) '
13 "He replied to one of them, 'Friend, I'm doing you no wrong. Didn't you agree with me on a denarius? (D) 14 Take what's yours and go. I want to give this last man the same as I gave you. 15 Don't I have the right to do what I want with my business? [h] Are you jealous [i] because I'm generous? (E) ' [j]
16 "So the last will be first, and the first last." (F) [k]
Footnotes:
Matthew 20:3 Lit about the third hour
Matthew 20:5 Lit about the sixth hour and the ninth hour
Matthew 20:6 Lit about the eleventh hour
Matthew 20:6 Other mss add doing nothing
Matthew 20:7 Other mss add &ls;and you'll get whatever is right.'
Matthew 20:8 Lit starting from the last until the first
Matthew 20:9 Lit about the eleventh hour
Matthew 20:15 Lit with what is mine
Matthew 20:15 Lit Is your eye evil; an idiom for jealousy or stinginess
Matthew 20:15 Lit good
Matthew 20:16 Other mss add For many are called, but few are chosen.
Cross references:
Matthew 20:1 : Mt 13:24; 21:28;, 33;
Matthew 20:8 : Lv 19:13; Dt 24:15;
Matthew 20:12 : Jnh 4:8; Lk 12:55; Jms 1:11;
Matthew 20:13 : Mt 22:12; 26:50;
Matthew 20:15 : Dt 15:9; Pr 23:6; Mt 6:23; Mk 7:22;
Matthew 20:16 : Mt 19:30; Mk 10:31; Lk 13:30;
Reflection:
What can work and wages, wefare and the unemployed tell us about the kingdom of God? In the parable of the laborers in the vineyard we see the extraordinary generosity and compassion of God. There is great tragedy in unemployment. In Jesus' times hired laborers had to wait each day in the marketplace until someone hired them for a day's job. No work that day usually meant no food on the family table. The laborers who worked all day and received their payment complain that the master pays the late afternoon laborers the same wage. The master, undoubtably, hired them in the late afternoon so they wouldn't go home payless and hungry. God is generous in opening the doors of his kingdom to all who will enter, both those who have labored a life-time for him and those who come at the last hour. While the reward is the same, the motive for one's labor can make all the difference. Some work only for reward. They will only put as much effort in as they think they will get out. Others labor out of love and joy for the opportunity to work. The Lord calls his disciples to serve God and neighbor with generosity and joy. Do you perform your work and duties with cheerfulness for the Lord's sake? And do you give generously to others, especially to those in need?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may I serve you and my neighbor with a glad and generous heart, not looking for how much I can get but rather looking for how much I can give.
Matthew 20:1-16 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Parable of the Vineyard Workers
Matthew 20 - 1 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. (A) 2 After agreeing with the workers on one denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 When he went out about nine in the morning, [a] he saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4 To those men he said, 'You also go to my vineyard, and I'll give you whatever is right.' So off they went. 5 About noon and at three, [b] he went out again and did the same thing. 6 Then about five [c] he went and found others standing around, [d] and said to them, 'Why have you been standing here all day doing nothing?'
7 " 'Because no one hired us,' they said to him.
" 'You also go to my vineyard,' he told them. [e] 8 When evening came, the owner of the vineyard told his foreman, 'Call the workers and give them their pay, (B) starting with the last and ending with the first.' [f]
9 "When those who were hired about five [g] came, they each received one denarius. 10 So when the first ones came, they assumed they would get more, but they also received a denarius each. 11 When they received it, they began to complain to the landowner: 12 'These last men put in one hour, and you made them equal to us who bore the burden of the day and the burning heat! (C) '
13 "He replied to one of them, 'Friend, I'm doing you no wrong. Didn't you agree with me on a denarius? (D) 14 Take what's yours and go. I want to give this last man the same as I gave you. 15 Don't I have the right to do what I want with my business? [h] Are you jealous [i] because I'm generous? (E) ' [j]
16 "So the last will be first, and the first last." (F) [k]
Footnotes:
Matthew 20:3 Lit about the third hour
Matthew 20:5 Lit about the sixth hour and the ninth hour
Matthew 20:6 Lit about the eleventh hour
Matthew 20:6 Other mss add doing nothing
Matthew 20:7 Other mss add &ls;and you'll get whatever is right.'
Matthew 20:8 Lit starting from the last until the first
Matthew 20:9 Lit about the eleventh hour
Matthew 20:15 Lit with what is mine
Matthew 20:15 Lit Is your eye evil; an idiom for jealousy or stinginess
Matthew 20:15 Lit good
Matthew 20:16 Other mss add For many are called, but few are chosen.
Cross references:
Matthew 20:1 : Mt 13:24; 21:28;, 33;
Matthew 20:8 : Lv 19:13; Dt 24:15;
Matthew 20:12 : Jnh 4:8; Lk 12:55; Jms 1:11;
Matthew 20:13 : Mt 22:12; 26:50;
Matthew 20:15 : Dt 15:9; Pr 23:6; Mt 6:23; Mk 7:22;
Matthew 20:16 : Mt 19:30; Mk 10:31; Lk 13:30;
Reflection:
What can work and wages, wefare and the unemployed tell us about the kingdom of God? In the parable of the laborers in the vineyard we see the extraordinary generosity and compassion of God. There is great tragedy in unemployment. In Jesus' times hired laborers had to wait each day in the marketplace until someone hired them for a day's job. No work that day usually meant no food on the family table. The laborers who worked all day and received their payment complain that the master pays the late afternoon laborers the same wage. The master, undoubtably, hired them in the late afternoon so they wouldn't go home payless and hungry. God is generous in opening the doors of his kingdom to all who will enter, both those who have labored a life-time for him and those who come at the last hour. While the reward is the same, the motive for one's labor can make all the difference. Some work only for reward. They will only put as much effort in as they think they will get out. Others labor out of love and joy for the opportunity to work. The Lord calls his disciples to serve God and neighbor with generosity and joy. Do you perform your work and duties with cheerfulness for the Lord's sake? And do you give generously to others, especially to those in need?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may I serve you and my neighbor with a glad and generous heart, not looking for how much I can get but rather looking for how much I can give.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Daily Word - Where's Your Treasure? - Matthew 19:23-30
Scripture:
Matthew 19:23-30 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Possessions and the Kingdom
23 Then Jesus said to His disciples, " I assure you: It will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven! (A) 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God." (B)
25 When the disciples heard this, they were utterly astonished and asked, "Then who can be saved?"
26 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (C)
27 Then Peter responded to Him, "Look, we have left everything and followed You. So what will there be for us?"
28 Jesus said to them, "I assure you: In the Messianic Age, (D) [a] when the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, (E) you who have followed Me will also sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses, brothers or sisters, father or mother, [b] children, or fields because of My name will receive 100 times more and will inherit eternal life. (F) 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last first. (G)
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:28 Lit the regeneration
Matthew 19:29 Other mss add or wife
Cross references:
Matthew 19:23 : Mt 13:22; Mk 10:23; 1Co 1:26; 1Tm 6:9;
Matthew 19:24 : Mt 12:28; Mk 10:25; Lk 18:25;
Matthew 19:26 : Gn 18:14; Jb 42:2; Jr 32:17; Zch 8:6; Mk 10:27; Lk 18:27;
Matthew 19:28 : Is 65:17; 66:22; 2Pt 3:13; Rv 21:1;
Matthew 19:28 : Ps 45:6; Mt 25:31; Heb 1:8; Rv 3:21; 22:1;, 3;
Matthew 19:29 : Mt 6:33; Mk 10:29; Lk 18:29;
Matthew 19:30 : Mt 20:16; 21:31; Mk 10:31; Lk 13:30;
Reflection:
Was Jesus really against wealth? And why does he issue such a strong warning to the rich (as well as to the rest of us who desire to be rich)? We know that Jesus was not opposed to wealth per se, nor was he opposed to the wealthy. He had many friends who were well-to-do, including some notorious tax collectors! One even became an apostle! Jesus' warning reiterated the wisdom of the Old Testament: Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is perverse in his ways (Proverbs 28:6; Psalm 37:16). Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to desist (Proverbs 23:4). Jesus seems to say that it is nearly impossible for the rich to live as citizens of God's kingdom. The camel was regarded as the largest animal in Palestine. The "eye of the needle" could be interpreted quite literally or it could figuratively describe the narrow and low gate of the city walls which was used by travellers when the larger public gate was locked after dark. A normal sized man had to "lower" himself to enter that gate. A camel would literally have to knell and crawl through it. Why is Jesus so cautious about wealth? Wealth can make us falsely independent. The church at Laodicea was warned about their attitude towards wealth and a false sense of security: "For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing" (Revelations 3:17). Wealth can also lead us into hurtful desires and selfishness (see 1 Tim. 6:9-10). Look at the lesson Jesus gave about the rich man and his sons who refused to aid the poor man Lazarus (see Luke 16:19). They also neglected to serve God. The scriptures give us a paradox: we lose what we keep and we gain what we give away. Generosity will be amply repaid, both in this life and in eternity (Proverbs 3:9-10, Luke 6:38). Jesus offers us an incomparable treasure which no money can buy and no thief can steal. The thing we most set our heart on is our highest treasure. Material wealth will shackle us to this earth unless we guard our hearts and set our treasure in God and his everlasting kingdom. Where is your treasure?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, you have captured our hearts and opened to us the treasures of heaven. May you always be my treasure and delight and may nothing else keep me from giving you my all.
Matthew 19:23-30 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Possessions and the Kingdom
23 Then Jesus said to His disciples, " I assure you: It will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven! (A) 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God." (B)
25 When the disciples heard this, they were utterly astonished and asked, "Then who can be saved?"
26 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (C)
27 Then Peter responded to Him, "Look, we have left everything and followed You. So what will there be for us?"
28 Jesus said to them, "I assure you: In the Messianic Age, (D) [a] when the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, (E) you who have followed Me will also sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses, brothers or sisters, father or mother, [b] children, or fields because of My name will receive 100 times more and will inherit eternal life. (F) 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last first. (G)
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:28 Lit the regeneration
Matthew 19:29 Other mss add or wife
Cross references:
Matthew 19:23 : Mt 13:22; Mk 10:23; 1Co 1:26; 1Tm 6:9;
Matthew 19:24 : Mt 12:28; Mk 10:25; Lk 18:25;
Matthew 19:26 : Gn 18:14; Jb 42:2; Jr 32:17; Zch 8:6; Mk 10:27; Lk 18:27;
Matthew 19:28 : Is 65:17; 66:22; 2Pt 3:13; Rv 21:1;
Matthew 19:28 : Ps 45:6; Mt 25:31; Heb 1:8; Rv 3:21; 22:1;, 3;
Matthew 19:29 : Mt 6:33; Mk 10:29; Lk 18:29;
Matthew 19:30 : Mt 20:16; 21:31; Mk 10:31; Lk 13:30;
Reflection:
Was Jesus really against wealth? And why does he issue such a strong warning to the rich (as well as to the rest of us who desire to be rich)? We know that Jesus was not opposed to wealth per se, nor was he opposed to the wealthy. He had many friends who were well-to-do, including some notorious tax collectors! One even became an apostle! Jesus' warning reiterated the wisdom of the Old Testament: Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is perverse in his ways (Proverbs 28:6; Psalm 37:16). Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to desist (Proverbs 23:4). Jesus seems to say that it is nearly impossible for the rich to live as citizens of God's kingdom. The camel was regarded as the largest animal in Palestine. The "eye of the needle" could be interpreted quite literally or it could figuratively describe the narrow and low gate of the city walls which was used by travellers when the larger public gate was locked after dark. A normal sized man had to "lower" himself to enter that gate. A camel would literally have to knell and crawl through it. Why is Jesus so cautious about wealth? Wealth can make us falsely independent. The church at Laodicea was warned about their attitude towards wealth and a false sense of security: "For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing" (Revelations 3:17). Wealth can also lead us into hurtful desires and selfishness (see 1 Tim. 6:9-10). Look at the lesson Jesus gave about the rich man and his sons who refused to aid the poor man Lazarus (see Luke 16:19). They also neglected to serve God. The scriptures give us a paradox: we lose what we keep and we gain what we give away. Generosity will be amply repaid, both in this life and in eternity (Proverbs 3:9-10, Luke 6:38). Jesus offers us an incomparable treasure which no money can buy and no thief can steal. The thing we most set our heart on is our highest treasure. Material wealth will shackle us to this earth unless we guard our hearts and set our treasure in God and his everlasting kingdom. Where is your treasure?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, you have captured our hearts and opened to us the treasures of heaven. May you always be my treasure and delight and may nothing else keep me from giving you my all.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Daily Word - Just Sell All Your Stuff - Matthew 19:16-22
Scripture:
Matthew 19:16-22 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Rich Young Ruler
16 Just then someone came up and asked Him, (A) "Teacher, what good must I do to have eternal life?" (B)
17 "Why do you ask Me about what is good?" [a] He said to him. "There is only One who is good. [b] If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." (C)
18 "Which ones?" he asked Him.
Jesus answered,
Do not murder;
do not commit adultery;
do not steal;
do not bear false witness; (D)
19 honor your father and your mother;
and love your neighbor as yourself. (E) (F)
20 "I have kept all these," [c] the young man told Him. "What do I still lack?"
21 "If you want to be perfect," [d] Jesus said to him, "go, sell your belongings and give to the poor, (G) and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me."
22 When the young man heard that command, he went away grieving, because he had many possessions.
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:17 Other mss read Why do you call Me good?
Matthew 19:17 Other mss read No one is good but One&md;God
Matthew 19:20 Other mss add from my youth
Matthew 19:21 Or complete
Cross references:
Matthew 19:16 : Mk 10:17-30; Lk 10:25-28; 18:18-30;
Matthew 19:16 : Mk 10:17; Jn 12:25; Ac 13:48;
Matthew 19:17 : Lv 18:5; Neh 9:29; Ezk 20:21;
Matthew 19:18 : Ex 20:13-16; Dt 5:17-20;
Matthew 19:19 : Ex 20:12; Lv 19:18; Dt 5:16; Mt 5:43; 22:39; Gl 5:14; Jms 2:8;
Matthew 19:19 : Ex 20:12-16; Dt 5:16-20; Lv 19:18;
Matthew 19:21 : Lk 12:33; 16:9; Ac 2:45; 4:35; 1Tm 6:18;
Reflection:
What gives hope and satisfaction to our desire for happiness and security? A young man who had the best the world could offer -- wealth and security -- came to Jesus because he lacked one thing. He wanted the kind of lasting peace and happiness which money could not buy him. The answer he got, however, was not what he was looking for. He protested that he kept all the commandments; but Jesus spoke to the trouble in his heart. One thing kept him from giving himself whole-heartedly to God. While he lacked nothing in material goods, he was nonetheless possessive of what he had. He placed his hope and security in what he possessed. So when Jesus challenged him to make God his one true possession and treasure, he became dismayed. Why did he go away from Jesus with sadness rather than with joy? His treasure and his hope for happiness were misplaced. 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. The Lord himself is the greatest treasure we can have. Giving up everything else to have the Lord as our treasure is not sorrowful, but the greatest joy! See Jesus' parable about the treasure hidden in a field (Matthew 13:44). Selling all that we have could mean many different things--our friends, our job, our "style" of life, what we do with our free time. Jesus challenged the young man because his heart was possessive. He was afraid to give to others for fear that he would lose what he had gained. Those who are generous towards God and others find that they cannot outgive God in generosity. God blesses us with spiritual goods that far outweigh the fleeting joys of material goods. He alone can satisfy the deepest longing and desires of our heart. Are you willing to part with anything that might keep you from seeking true joy with Jesus?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, you alone can satisfy the deepest longing in my heart. No other treasure can compare with you. Keep me free from being possessive or discontented and give me joy in having you alone as my Treasure and my Portion.
Matthew 19:16-22 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Rich Young Ruler
16 Just then someone came up and asked Him, (A) "Teacher, what good must I do to have eternal life?" (B)
17 "Why do you ask Me about what is good?" [a] He said to him. "There is only One who is good. [b] If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." (C)
18 "Which ones?" he asked Him.
Jesus answered,
Do not murder;
do not commit adultery;
do not steal;
do not bear false witness; (D)
19 honor your father and your mother;
and love your neighbor as yourself. (E) (F)
20 "I have kept all these," [c] the young man told Him. "What do I still lack?"
21 "If you want to be perfect," [d] Jesus said to him, "go, sell your belongings and give to the poor, (G) and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me."
22 When the young man heard that command, he went away grieving, because he had many possessions.
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:17 Other mss read Why do you call Me good?
Matthew 19:17 Other mss read No one is good but One&md;God
Matthew 19:20 Other mss add from my youth
Matthew 19:21 Or complete
Cross references:
Matthew 19:16 : Mk 10:17-30; Lk 10:25-28; 18:18-30;
Matthew 19:16 : Mk 10:17; Jn 12:25; Ac 13:48;
Matthew 19:17 : Lv 18:5; Neh 9:29; Ezk 20:21;
Matthew 19:18 : Ex 20:13-16; Dt 5:17-20;
Matthew 19:19 : Ex 20:12; Lv 19:18; Dt 5:16; Mt 5:43; 22:39; Gl 5:14; Jms 2:8;
Matthew 19:19 : Ex 20:12-16; Dt 5:16-20; Lv 19:18;
Matthew 19:21 : Lk 12:33; 16:9; Ac 2:45; 4:35; 1Tm 6:18;
Reflection:
What gives hope and satisfaction to our desire for happiness and security? A young man who had the best the world could offer -- wealth and security -- came to Jesus because he lacked one thing. He wanted the kind of lasting peace and happiness which money could not buy him. The answer he got, however, was not what he was looking for. He protested that he kept all the commandments; but Jesus spoke to the trouble in his heart. One thing kept him from giving himself whole-heartedly to God. While he lacked nothing in material goods, he was nonetheless possessive of what he had. He placed his hope and security in what he possessed. So when Jesus challenged him to make God his one true possession and treasure, he became dismayed. Why did he go away from Jesus with sadness rather than with joy? His treasure and his hope for happiness were misplaced. 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. The Lord himself is the greatest treasure we can have. Giving up everything else to have the Lord as our treasure is not sorrowful, but the greatest joy! See Jesus' parable about the treasure hidden in a field (Matthew 13:44). Selling all that we have could mean many different things--our friends, our job, our "style" of life, what we do with our free time. Jesus challenged the young man because his heart was possessive. He was afraid to give to others for fear that he would lose what he had gained. Those who are generous towards God and others find that they cannot outgive God in generosity. God blesses us with spiritual goods that far outweigh the fleeting joys of material goods. He alone can satisfy the deepest longing and desires of our heart. Are you willing to part with anything that might keep you from seeking true joy with Jesus?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, you alone can satisfy the deepest longing in my heart. No other treasure can compare with you. Keep me free from being possessive or discontented and give me joy in having you alone as my Treasure and my Portion.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Daily Word - Heaven Is Made Up Of People Like This - Matthew 19:13-15
Scripture:
Matthew 19:13-15 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Blessing the Children
13 Then children were brought to Him so He might put His hands on them and pray. But the disciples rebuked them. (A) 14 Then Jesus said, "Leave the children alone, and don't try to keep them from coming to Me, because the kingdom of heaven is made up of people like this." (B) [a] 15 After putting His hands on them, He went on from there.
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:14 Lit heaven is of such ones
Cross references:
Matthew 19:13 : Mk 10:13-16; Lk 18:15-17;
Matthew 19:14 : Mt 18:3; 1Pt 2:2;
Reflection:
Do you seek to help others draw near to the Lord? The parents who brought their children to Jesus wanted Jesus to lay his hands upon them. They knew of the healing power, both physical and spiritual, which came from Jesus' touch. Jesus, in turn, rebuked his disciples for hindering the children from coming. No doubt the disciples wanted to shield Jesus from the nuisance of noisy children. But Jesus delighted in the children and demonstrated that God's love has ample room for everyone, including children. No one is unimportant to God. He comes to each person individually that he might touch them with his healing love and power. Do you show kindness to the youth you encounter in your neighborhood, home, and church and do you pray for them that they may grow in the knowledge and wisdom of Jesus Christ?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may we never hinder our youth from coming to you to receive your blessing and healing power. Make our youth strong in faith and character that they may follow you zealously. And as we grow with age, may we never lose that child-like simplicity and humility which draws us into your loving presence.
Matthew 19:13-15 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Blessing the Children
13 Then children were brought to Him so He might put His hands on them and pray. But the disciples rebuked them. (A) 14 Then Jesus said, "Leave the children alone, and don't try to keep them from coming to Me, because the kingdom of heaven is made up of people like this." (B) [a] 15 After putting His hands on them, He went on from there.
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:14 Lit heaven is of such ones
Cross references:
Matthew 19:13 : Mk 10:13-16; Lk 18:15-17;
Matthew 19:14 : Mt 18:3; 1Pt 2:2;
Reflection:
Do you seek to help others draw near to the Lord? The parents who brought their children to Jesus wanted Jesus to lay his hands upon them. They knew of the healing power, both physical and spiritual, which came from Jesus' touch. Jesus, in turn, rebuked his disciples for hindering the children from coming. No doubt the disciples wanted to shield Jesus from the nuisance of noisy children. But Jesus delighted in the children and demonstrated that God's love has ample room for everyone, including children. No one is unimportant to God. He comes to each person individually that he might touch them with his healing love and power. Do you show kindness to the youth you encounter in your neighborhood, home, and church and do you pray for them that they may grow in the knowledge and wisdom of Jesus Christ?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, may we never hinder our youth from coming to you to receive your blessing and healing power. Make our youth strong in faith and character that they may follow you zealously. And as we grow with age, may we never lose that child-like simplicity and humility which draws us into your loving presence.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Daily Word - Divorce? - Matthew 19:1-12
Scripture:
Matthew 19:1-12 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Question of Divorce
Matthew 19
1 When Jesus had finished this instruction, (A) He departed from Galilee and went to the region of Judea across the Jordan. (B) 2 Large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there. (C) 3 Some Pharisees approached Him to test Him. They asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife on any grounds?" (D)
4 "Haven't you read," He replied, "that He who created [a] them in the beginning made them male and female , (E) (F) 5 and He also said:
For this reason a man will leave
his father and mother
and be joined to his wife,
and the two will become one flesh ? (G) (H)
6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, man must not separate."
7 "Why then," they asked Him, "did Moses command [us] to give divorce papers (I) and to send her away?"
8 He told them, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because of the hardness of your hearts. But it was not like that from the beginning. 9 And I tell you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery." (J) [b]
10 His disciples (K) said to Him, "If the relationship of a man with his wife is like this, it's better not to marry!"
11 But He told them, "Not everyone can accept this saying, but only those it has been given (L) to. 12 For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother's womb, there are eunuchs who were made by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves that way because of the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:4 Other mss read made
Matthew 19:9 Other mss add Also whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery; [Mt 5:32]
Cross references:
Matthew 19:1 : Mk 10:1-12;
Matthew 19:1 : Mt 7:28; Lk 9:51; Jn 10:40;
Matthew 19:2 : Mt 4:23; 12:15;
Matthew 19:3 : Mt 5:31; Jn 8:6;
Matthew 19:4 : Gn 1:27; 2:18; 5:2; Mt 21:16;
Matthew 19:4 : Gn 1:27; 5:2;
Matthew 19:5 : Gn 2:24; Mal 2:15; 1Co 6:16; Eph 5:31;
Matthew 19:5 : Gn 2:24;
Matthew 19:7 : Dt 24:1-4; Mt 5:31;
Matthew 19:9 : Mt 5:32; Lk 16:18;
Matthew 19:10 : Mt 10:1; 26:56; Mk 3:7; 16:20; Lk 6:13; Jn 12:16;
Matthew 19:11 : Mt 13:11; 1Co 7:7;
Reflection:
What is God's intention for our state in life, whether married or single? Jesus deals with the issue of divorce by taking his hearers back to the beginning of creation and to God's plan for the human race. In Genesis 2:23-24 we see God's intention and ideal that two people who marry should become so indissolubly one that they are one flesh. That ideal is found in the unbreakable union of Adam and Eve. They were created for each other and for no one else. They are the pattern and symbol for all who were to come. Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce as a concession in view of a lost ideal. Jesus sets the high ideal of the married state before those who are willing to accept his commands. Jesus, likewise sets the high ideal for those who freely renounce marriage for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Both marriage and celibacy are calls from God to live a consecrated life, that is to live as married couples or as singles who belong not to themselves but to God. Our lives are not our own, but they belong to God. He gives the grace and power to those who seek to follow his way of holiness in their state of life. Do you seek Christ and his grace in your state of life?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus Christ, your call to holiness extends to all in every state of life. Sanctify our lives--as married couples and as singles--that we may live as men and women who are consecrated to you. Make us leaven in a society that disdains life-long marriage fidelity, chastity, and living single for the Lord.
Matthew 19:1-12 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
The Question of Divorce
Matthew 19
1 When Jesus had finished this instruction, (A) He departed from Galilee and went to the region of Judea across the Jordan. (B) 2 Large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there. (C) 3 Some Pharisees approached Him to test Him. They asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife on any grounds?" (D)
4 "Haven't you read," He replied, "that He who created [a] them in the beginning made them male and female , (E) (F) 5 and He also said:
For this reason a man will leave
his father and mother
and be joined to his wife,
and the two will become one flesh ? (G) (H)
6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, man must not separate."
7 "Why then," they asked Him, "did Moses command [us] to give divorce papers (I) and to send her away?"
8 He told them, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because of the hardness of your hearts. But it was not like that from the beginning. 9 And I tell you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery." (J) [b]
10 His disciples (K) said to Him, "If the relationship of a man with his wife is like this, it's better not to marry!"
11 But He told them, "Not everyone can accept this saying, but only those it has been given (L) to. 12 For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother's womb, there are eunuchs who were made by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves that way because of the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."
Footnotes:
Matthew 19:4 Other mss read made
Matthew 19:9 Other mss add Also whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery; [Mt 5:32]
Cross references:
Matthew 19:1 : Mk 10:1-12;
Matthew 19:1 : Mt 7:28; Lk 9:51; Jn 10:40;
Matthew 19:2 : Mt 4:23; 12:15;
Matthew 19:3 : Mt 5:31; Jn 8:6;
Matthew 19:4 : Gn 1:27; 2:18; 5:2; Mt 21:16;
Matthew 19:4 : Gn 1:27; 5:2;
Matthew 19:5 : Gn 2:24; Mal 2:15; 1Co 6:16; Eph 5:31;
Matthew 19:5 : Gn 2:24;
Matthew 19:7 : Dt 24:1-4; Mt 5:31;
Matthew 19:9 : Mt 5:32; Lk 16:18;
Matthew 19:10 : Mt 10:1; 26:56; Mk 3:7; 16:20; Lk 6:13; Jn 12:16;
Matthew 19:11 : Mt 13:11; 1Co 7:7;
Reflection:
What is God's intention for our state in life, whether married or single? Jesus deals with the issue of divorce by taking his hearers back to the beginning of creation and to God's plan for the human race. In Genesis 2:23-24 we see God's intention and ideal that two people who marry should become so indissolubly one that they are one flesh. That ideal is found in the unbreakable union of Adam and Eve. They were created for each other and for no one else. They are the pattern and symbol for all who were to come. Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce as a concession in view of a lost ideal. Jesus sets the high ideal of the married state before those who are willing to accept his commands. Jesus, likewise sets the high ideal for those who freely renounce marriage for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Both marriage and celibacy are calls from God to live a consecrated life, that is to live as married couples or as singles who belong not to themselves but to God. Our lives are not our own, but they belong to God. He gives the grace and power to those who seek to follow his way of holiness in their state of life. Do you seek Christ and his grace in your state of life?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord Jesus Christ, your call to holiness extends to all in every state of life. Sanctify our lives--as married couples and as singles--that we may live as men and women who are consecrated to you. Make us leaven in a society that disdains life-long marriage fidelity, chastity, and living single for the Lord.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)