Today’s Reading: Matthew 22:1-14; 23:1-39; 25:1-30

The Pharisees had the opportunity to learn from Jesus and to celebrate the coming of the Messiah. But in their arrogance, they looked for fault in what Jesus did or did not do. Knowing they had become comfortable in their own habits of self-righteousness, he pointed out to them the condition of their hearts. Although they took pride in their spotless perfection, Jesus pointed out to them the obvious stains of their spiritual condition.

THEY WERE CLOTHED IN THEIR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS INSTEAD OF HIS.

“The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son… – Matthew 22:2

Invitations were sent to all the guests and, as was the custom in those days, a second invitation went out to let all of the guests know that the banquet was prepared and they were ready for everyone to arrive. The decorations were up, the food was prepared, and the wedding clothes were laid out but the guests refused to come.

So the king sent his servants out once more, extending grace to those who had so rudely refused his invitation. But some guests were too busy to be bothered and other guests were so bold as to insult and kill the messengers. So the king sent out his army to destroy them and burn down their town.

The king sent his servants back out to the street corners to invite anyone they saw. Everyone was invited to this great wedding feast, whether they had the reputation of being good or bad. The king was extending grace to all who were willing to come and enjoy the banquet he had prepared. As was the custom, wedding clothes were provided and it was an insult not to wear the gift so generously given.

“But when the king came in to meet the guests, he noticed a man who wasn’t wearing the proper clothes for a wedding. ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how is it that you are here without wedding clothes?’ But the man had no reply. Then the king said to his aides, ‘Bind his hands and feet and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” – Matthew 22:11-14

The guests had the opportunity to share a meal with the king, to sit around the table and enjoy the celebration that had been prepared. They did not have to prove their worthiness or their religious status; it did not matter if they had a good or bad reputation. They were being given the opportunity to accept the invitation extended in grace and the gift of the king’s righteousness was offered.

THEY WERE UNPREPARED FOR THE COMING OF THE BRIDEGROOM.

“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom.” – Matthew 25:1

Five of the bridesmaids came unprepared and ran out of olive oil for their lamps, while the other five were wise enough to bring extra. As they waited for the bridegroom, they all fell asleep. At midnight they woke to the announcement that the bridegroom was coming. The five foolish bridesmaids did not have enough oil to light their lamps and they left to buy more oil. By the time they returned, the door was closed. Because they weren’t prepared, they missed the moment when the bridegroom had returned. It was too late.

THEY WERE IRRESPONSIBLE WITH THAT WHICH HAD BEEN ENTRUSTED TO THEM.

“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone.” – Matthew 25:14

When the master returned, he asked each servant to give an account of how they had used his money while he was gone. The one who had been given five bags of silver reported that he now had ten to give back to the master; the one who had been given two bags of silver now had four.

“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’” – Matthew 25:23

But the servant who had been given only one bag of silver reported that he had buried the silver. In fear and laziness, he had protected the money rather than using it to multiply the master’s profits. The master was angry and took the money away from the servant, giving it to the one who now had ten.

“To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.” – Matthew 25:29

Am I properly dressed today? Am I clothed in the kind of real faith that produces spiritual fruit? Have I accepted the gift of His righteousness, fully accepting my inability to earn my place at the table. Producing fruit is not something I can do on my own. I can try to be known for my good works, but my efforts will be like the Pharisees who clean the outside of the cup but are powerless to clean the inside (Matthew 23:25). I can clothe myself in generosity, but my attempts to produce fruit will be like the guests who came to the wedding feast dressed in their own clothes.

Precious Lord, thank you for the gift of salvation and the opportunity to work in your vineyard today. Empty me of my own selfish tendencies, fill me with your Spirit and work through me to produce fruit for you today. God, I come to you today just as I am, submitting who I am in order to be clothed with who you are. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-19

“What sorrow awaits you! For you build monuments for the prophets your own ancestors killed long ago. But in fact, you stand as witnesses who agree with what your ancestors did. They killed the prophets, and you join in their crime by building the monuments! This is what God in his wisdom said about you: ‘I will send prophets and apostles to them, but they will kill some and persecute the others.’” — Luke 11:47-49

Let’s consider again the story Jesus told about a man who owned some land. He could have done anything with this land that belonged to him, but he chose to build a vineyard on it. The man took great care of this vineyard by building a wall around it for protection, as well as building a lookout tower to be used for guarding against approaching threats. He even built a pit for pressing out the grape juice so that the workers of the vineyard would have what they needed to produce wine from the fruit that grew on the vines.

The landowner found some tenant farmers to lease his vineyard and an agreement or covenant was made to define how much of the profit the farmers would keep and how much they would pay the landowner. When the time came for the farmers to bring in the harvest, the man sent his servants to collect his share of the crop. But the farmers attacked the servants by beating one, killing one and stoning another. So the landowner sent a large group of servants to collect the agreed upon amount, but they killed them too.

Imagine the grief and frustration of the landowner. He had thoughtfully provided this beautiful vineyard and entered into a covenant agreement with those to whom he was entrusting his property, yet his tenants had broken their covenant and viciously killed his servants.

“‘What will I do?’ the owner asked himself. ‘I know! I’ll send my cherished son. Surely they will respect him.’

“But when the tenant farmers saw his son, they said to each other, ‘Here comes the heir to this estate. Let’s kill him and get the estate for ourselves!’ So they dragged him out of the vineyard and murdered him. – Luke 20:13-15a

The owner of the vineyard had equipped them with a watchtower to be used to protect the fruit of their labor, but they used it instead to plot against the son he had sent to make right all they had made wrong. Had they forgotten the promises they had made? Had they allowed their hearts to harden against the one who had been so generous towards them?

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THOSE WHO REJECT HIS SON?

“What do you suppose the owner of the vineyard will do?” Jesus asked. “I’ll tell you—he will come and kill those farmers and lease the vineyard to others. Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures?
‘The stone that the builders rejected
has now become the cornerstone.
This is the Lord’s doing,
and it is wonderful to see.’”
The religious leaders wanted to arrest Jesus because they realized he was telling the story against them—they were the wicked farmers. But they were afraid of the crowd, so they left him and went away. – Mark 12:9-12

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THOSE WHO DO NOT PRODUCE FRUIT?

There were times when those listening did not understand the meaning behind Jesus’ parable, but this day the religious leaders fully understood he was talking about them. They were the wicked farmers who were plotting against God’s son.

But what about us? Do we see ourselves in this story? We may not be plotting against Jesus but are we living out our covenant relationship with God as we promised Him we would do? Are we using the gifts He has given us and grateful for the territory He has provided for us?

Father God, give us hearts of obedience and hands willing to work for you. Renew in us a passion to walk in relationship with you, remaining faithful to our promises. Refresh a spirit of generosity and gratitude for all you have done for us and all you have provided. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Matthew 25:1-46; Luke 19:11-27; Psalm 58

Every day Jesus would go to the temple to teach, and each evening he returned to spend the night on the Mount of Olives (Luke 21:37). One evening, his disciples came to him privately with their questions. “Tell us, when will this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” (Matthew 24:3). Their request was like that of the psalmist and their desire to understand was very much like our own. Show me. Teach me. Guide me (Psalm 25:4-5).

Jesus wanted to help them understand what was ahead so he painted three word pictures. These were the final stories or parables that Jesus used to teach his followers, for this was the week before his death. What significance is there to what Jesus saved for last?

Picture this: Ten bridesmaids stand waiting for the bridegroom, five have come prepared with extra oil for their lamps and five have not. By the time the bridegroom arrives, only five bridesmaids remain; the other five did not have enough oil to keep their lamps lit. They were not prepared for his coming and therefore missed their opportunity to go with the bridegroom to the marriage feast. The door was locked by the time they returned with more oil and they were left standing outside. It was too late (Matthew 25:1-13).

What keeps my light burning? When I neglect my time in God’s presence, I miss the chance to daily be filled with His Spirit. When I am not feeding my relationship with Jesus and I find myself empty, my light begins to fade. “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’” (25:12). The bridegroom is coming back for those he has a relationship with, those he knows by the Spirit living within them.

Picture this: A man is going on a long trip. He is going to be gone for a long time so he calls in his servants and entrusts them with his money while he is gone. He gives five bags of silver to one, two bags to another and one bag to the last servant. When he returns, he finds that the one with five bags of silver has invested the money and earned five more. The servant with two bags of silver has earned two more. To both of these servants, the Master responds, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21)

However, the last servant has not been about his Master’s business while he was gone. The servant brings the one bag of silver back to his master, having done nothing with that which was entrusted to him. The Master calls the servant wicked and asks him why he did not at least deposit the money in a bank to build interest.

“Then, turning to the others standing nearby, the king ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one who has ten pounds.’
“‘But, master,’ they said, ‘he already has ten pounds!’
“‘Yes,’ the king replied, ‘and to those who use well what they are given, even more will be given. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. And as for these enemies of mine who didn’t want me to be their king—bring them in and execute them right here in front of me.’” – Luke 19:24-27

What has God asked of me? To what has He called me? What am I doing with what He has entrusted to me? Is my life marked by multiplication or am I simply maintaining the status quo?

Picture this: The Son of Man is coming in all His glory. Angels surround Him as He sits on His throne. All the nations have gathered in His presence and He begins to separate the people into two groups, as a shepherd would separate the sheep from the goats in his flock.

To those on His right, the King will say, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me…I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” – Matthew 25:34-40

To those on His left, the King will say, “Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons. For I was hungry, and you didn’t feed me. I was thirsty, and you didn’t give me a drink. I was a stranger, and you didn’t invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didn’t give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me…I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.” – Matthew 25:41-45

“And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life” (Matthew 25:46). Jesus’ time was nearing the end and he chose to talk to his closest companions about eternal punishment and eternal life. This topic was obviously very important to Jesus, yet how often do I consider the reality of these two endings? How many of us accept the truth of heaven and hell?

Lord, give me eyes to PICTURE THIS — people around me with needs, both physical and spiritual. Help me to PICTURE THIS — YOU in the eyes of those in need around me. Fill me with a love and passion for the unsaved that desires to rescue them from a life marked by hunger, nakedness, sickness and bondage.

Give me eyes to PICTURE THIS — people around me walking on the path that leads to eternal punishment. Forgive me for taking their destiny lightly and only focusing on my own future with You. Master, may I hear you say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21) Amen.

Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Today’s Reading: Mark 12:41-44, 13:1-37; Luke 21:1-38

Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

As the day of his death neared, Jesus’ words became stronger. He warned the church and he prepared his faithful followers for what was ahead. His words from long ago can speak clearly to us today as we sit at his feet and ask him to once again teach us the path he wants us to walk.

BE GENEROUS: “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law – justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things…” – Matthew 23:23

Justice — There are industries in our world that are destroying thousands of lives each week (abortion, pornography, gambling, sex trafficking, drugs), but we spend more time planning our next church party or redecorating our house than we do planning the rescue of those who are in slavery to these profit-making industries.

Mercy — We are quick to judge those who have walked away from the church instead of reaching out and loving them as Jesus would. We are quicker to click the “care” button on social media than we are to stop and pray for them.

Faith — We say we have faith in God, but do we trust Him with immediate obedience when He asks us to do something or prompts us to say something? We have forgotten that the God who can do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20) is the same God who gives us the faith to move mountains.

It’s not enough to attend church every time the doors are open, teach a Sunday School class, and tithe. It is more than just meeting a minimum standard, it is giving our lives! It’s about generosity — today, tomorrow, and the day after that.

Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” – Mark 12:41-44

INWARD CONDITION, not OUTWARD APPEARANCES: “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy – full of greed and self-indulgence! You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too…For you are whitewashed tombs — beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people’s bones and all sorts of impurity. Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness.” – Matthew 23:25-28

Jesus, forgive me for all the times I have worried about what other people would think. Lord, wash me from the inside out. Purify my heart, Oh God! May I keep my focus on you and you only.

ENDURE: “…there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! Even those closest to you—your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends—will betray you. They will even kill some of you. And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. But not a hair of your head will perish! By standing firm, you will win your souls.” – Luke 21:12b-19

What is ahead will not be easy, but endure. We live in a world full of false teachings; let the truth of God endure. There is power in the gospel message and it will endure until all nations have heard the message of salvation. So stand firm.

KEEP WATCH: “So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” – Matthew 24:42-44

No matter how hard things get, keep watch, be ready and stay faithful.

BE FAITHFUL: “The coming of the Son of Man can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. When he left home, he gave each of his slaves instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. You, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!” – Mark 13:34-37

Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Today’s Reading: Matthew 22:15-33; Mark 12:13-40; Luke 20:1-8, 20-47

As Jesus’ time on earth shortened, the religious leaders were ramping up their opposition against him, using their questions to try to trip him up. If they could get him to say the wrong thing, they would have a reason to have him arrested. If they could get him to respond in an offensive way, they could turn the people against him.

Jesus took advantage of this opportunity to teach his followers. His time was short and there was still so much he wanted them to know. Jesus focused on preparing them for how they should live their lives as they wait for his return.

His wisdom is still valid for us today as we wait for the day when Jesus will come back for us. His words are encouraging as we face persecution and opposition for our Christian values. Let’s simply sit at the feet of Jesus again this morning and soak in all of the things he felt it was important for his followers to hear before he left them. Let’s start by sincerely praying the words of the psalmist:

Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

GIVE: “Well, then,” Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” – Mark 12:17a

There’s an element of honesty here. As we live in a community, we cooperate with the government and authorities by giving what is required of us. In the same way, we live a generous and honest life with God, giving the tithe that is required but also responding generously to anything He asks us to give.

STUDY: When the Sadducees asked him a question about the resurrection from the dead, Jesus replied, “Your mistake is that you don’t know the Scriptures, and you don’t know the power of God” (Mark 12:24).

By studying God’s word, I increase my knowledge of the Scriptures and gain a clearer understanding of who God is and how incredibly BIG He is! This understanding helps me face any situation before me.

LOVE: When the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with the question of which commandment in the Law of Moses was the most important, Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.”

The teacher of religious law replied, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying that there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.”

Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions. – Mark 12:29-34

The Law of Moses can be quite overwhelming with its 613 rules, and the New Testament is also full of instructions for us. But if we focus on living our lives out of a deep love for God and love for others, the result will be a life marked by holy living. Our walk becomes about our devotion to a relationship rather than our commitment to a religion. We live out our love relationship with Jesus and it looks a lot like loving others. And according to Jesus, the closer we get to this, the closer we get to the Kingdom of God.

PRACTICE: When we love God with all our heart, soul and mind, we live a life to please only Him rather than focusing on pleasing people. Our religion becomes more than just what we say but how we live. Unlike the Pharisees, we practice what we preach.

“So practice and obey whatever they tell you, but don’t follow their example. For they don’t practice what they teach. They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden. Everything they do is for show.” – Matthew 23:3-5a

BE HUMBLE: “The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:11-12

Then, with the crowds listening, he turned to his disciples and said, “Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces. And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets. Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be severely punished.” – Luke 20:45-47

Lord, give me a servant’s heart. Create in me a heart that only desires what you desire. Lord, I want my life to be honest and generous, demonstrating a love for you and a love for others. Show me your ways, Lord. Teach me your word and live through me in ways that bring you glory. Amen.

Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Today’s Reading: John 12:20-50; Psalm 55

What is on your mind this morning? What decision are you facing or what situation is heavy on your heart? This morning let’s simply sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to what He has to say. What do I need to hear today? What words of Jesus speak specifically of where I am and what is happening in my life today? Jesus, let your words wash over me fresh and new today.

Follow me…be where I am.

Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels — a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.” – John 12:23-26

Walk in the light…put your trust in the light.

Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.” – John 12:35-36

Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me. For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me. I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.” – John 12:44-46

Do as I have done to you.

“I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.” – John 13:15-17

Love each other.

As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, “The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him. And since God receives glory because of the Son, he will soon give glory to the Son. Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer. And as I told the Jewish leaders, you will search for me, but you can’t come where I am going. So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” – John 13:31-35

Don’t be troubled…trust in me.

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.” – John 14:1-4

You know me.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!” – John 14:6-7

Ask me for anything and I will do it!

“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!” – John 14:12-14

Perhaps today you will walk into a new situation and hear Jesus saying – I know you cannot see what is ahead but put your trust in me. Follow me. Be where I am. Walk in the light. Put your trust in the light. Do as I have done to you: Love each other. Don’t be troubled. Trust in me. You know me. Ask for anything and I will do it! What is He saying that speaks into where you are at or what is ahead for you today?

Morning, noon, and night
I cry out in my distress,
and the Lord hears my voice…
Give your burdens to the Lord,
and he will take care of you.
He will not permit the godly to slip and fall…
I am trusting you to save me. – Psalm 55:17, 22-23

Today’s Reading: Mark 11:15-19, 27-33; Luke 13:1-5, 31-35, 19:45-48; John 10:22-42

AT THE TEMPLE

It was in the temple where Mary and Joseph offered the required sacrifice for their purification offering, and then dedicated their eight day old son to the Lord at the time of his circumcision (Luke 2:21-24). Led by the Spirit, they came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required. Simeon held the baby in his arms and began praising the Lord. The prophet Anna was also there and joined in the celebration.

Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” – Luke 2:34-35

AT THE TEMPLE

It was in the Temple where Mary and Joseph found twelve year old Jesus after searching for him for three days. They found him sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Those who heard him were amazed by his understanding of the scriptures (Luke 2:41-47).

AT THE TEMPLE

It was in the temple that Jesus taught the people, healed the sick and gave sight to the blind. Many came to believe in him while standing in the temple listening to all he had to say, yet others rejected him.

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Jesus was surrounded by people who were demanding he make it clear right there and right then whether or not he was the Messiah.

Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.” — John 10:25

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that people picked up stones to kill Jesus. When he reminded them of all the good works he had done at his Father’s direction, they replied that they were stoning him because he, a mere man, claimed to be God.

“Why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world. Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work. But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” – John 10:36-38

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Jesus drove out all of the people who were buying and selling animals for sacrifice. They were taking advantage of God’s people and taking the focus of worship away from God. He stood up for the poor and needy; he defended those who had traveled so far. When the religious leaders heard what Jesus had done, they made plans to kill him (Mark 11:15-19).

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Pilate killed some who had traveled from Galilee to offer sacrifices to God. The place that had been built to restore life had become a place of death (Luke 13:1-5).

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that the religious leaders demanded Jesus prove his authority. Because they were not able to answer his question, he did not answer theirs.

“I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied. “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human? Answer me!” – Mark 11:29-30

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that those who were appointed to prepare God’s people for the coming of the Messiah plotted to kill the one they were supposed to be celebrating. Jesus cried out over the devastation that Jerusalem had become and pointed out to them that their temple was no longer a dwelling place for the God they had been called to serve.

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’” – Luke 13:34-35

AT THE TEMPLE

We are God’s temple, the place He chooses to have His Spirit dwell. It is in that temple that God teaches us and prepares us for the life to which He is calling us. It is in that temple that our faith is strengthened and our healing begins.

At times, God does a clearing of all of the ungodly habits and practices we have let creep into our life. At times, we question His character and challenge His motives. But it is also at this temple that God’s sanctifying power begins to take away our sinful desires and replace it with His righteousness. Have you opened the door of the temple to allow God to clean out and remodel your heart?

Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. – 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Today’s Reading: Mark 4:21-25; Luke 8:16-18; John 12:17-19

When all the people heard of Jesus’ arrival, they flocked to see him and also to see Lazarus, the man Jesus had raised from the dead. Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus. – John 12:9-11

LAZARUS’ STORY BROUGHT JESUS GLORY

Lazarus was making a difference in the lives of so many people because he allowed his story to be shared. Jesus had done something miraculous in his life, and he used that miracle to help others understand the difference Jesus could make in their lives. He had been dead, but he was now alive because of Jesus!

What Jesus had done for Lazarus became his story, but it did not stay Lazarus’ story. His healing was more about Jesus than it was about Lazarus. It was Jesus’ story meant to be used for Jesus’ glory, so that others could see the power of the Messiah on display in Lazarus’ life..

Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. That was the reason so many went out to meet him – because they had heard about this miraculous sign. Then the Pharisees said to each other, “There’s nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him!” – John 12:17-19

HIS STORY FOR JESUS’ GLORY

Many came to faith because Lazarus allowed his story to be told. He did not hide from the impact Jesus had made in his life, nor did he claim any of that glory for himself. He became a light in a very dark place and many gained understanding of who Jesus was because of the story of Lazarus’ healing.

Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”

Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given — and you will receive even more. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.” – Mark 4:21-25

Let’s not forget that death came before the healing; grief came before the peace. The story of Lazarus was not just about the joy of death resurrected; his story began from a place of pain and tears. As he was sick and dying, he might have wondered where Jesus was. When he was told that his friends had gone to bring Jesus back, he might have questioned what was taking Jesus so long. As he felt his life fading away, he must have felt a lot like we do when we cannot see the answer to our prayers. Later, when the leading priests began to plot his death, Lazarus must have felt a lot like we do when we are bullied or criticized for our faith.

Will you allow God to have the rest of your story? Will you allow Him to be glorified through both the pain and the triumph? Even if He chooses to be glorified through your death instead of through your healing, do you trust Him? Even if God uses the story of the persecution you experienced because of your faith rather than of the favor you received on earth, will you trust Him?

MY STORY FOR JESUS’ GLORY

But when Jesus heard about it he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” – John 11:4

That is the desire of my heart this morning — for God to be glorified through the circumstances of my life. I want it to be said that I trusted God in both sickness and health, in both disappointment and victory. I want everything God does in my life to be more than just my story, but to be for Jesus’ glory.

Lord Jesus, I give you the circumstances of my life and ask that you would receive the glory for each and every detail. I want my faith in you to look like trust during the trials and perseverance during the persecution. Strengthen my faith in who you are so that my testimony of your power can be on display for others to see — for your glory! Amen.

Today’s Reading: Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-11

Greetings! I hope you had a wonderful weekend celebrating the resurrection of Christ. Today we are going back to study some of the passages we skipped over before Holy Week. We will finish the study of Jesus’ life on earth as told through Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and then we will move on to all the Lord continued to do through the apostles. May the Lord bless the reading of His word!

PEOPLE RESPONDED TO JESUS IN DIFFERENT WAYS.

Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus – the man he had raised from the dead. A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” Not that he cared for the poor – he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself. – John 12:1-6

The Passover was only six days away and I am sure there was much that needed to be done for this annual celebration, yet Lazarus and his sisters put aside their preparations in order to throw a dinner party in Jesus’ honor. What a year it had been for them! They recognized how different this Passover celebration would have been if not for Jesus’ intervention in their lives. Lazarus had been dead but here he was at the dinner party because of Jesus! God had blessed them greatly and they refused to forget His generosity; they chose to be generous in return.

MARTHA’S RESPONSE WAS TO SERVE.

Martha was doing what she did best — serving. It was her love language. Lazarus was soaking in the presence of Jesus, thankful for the opportunity to share a meal together in brotherly fellowship. He was giving Jesus the gift of his time, recognizing that every minute of his life was a gift from Jesus.

MARY’S RESPONSE WAS TO GIVE SACRIFICIALLY.

Mary’s response to Jesus was beautiful in its own way, perhaps describing her love language — sacrifice. There was nothing too expensive for Jesus, nothing she was unwilling to do in order to express her devotion to the Savior. The house was filled with the fragrance. Mary’s gift and her worship had an impact on everyone in her vicinity. When we give our best to God, when we serve and worship Him with reckless abandon, all those around us are impacted by our gift.

JUDAS’ RESPONSE WAS ONE OF SELFISHNESS AND GREED.

Judas was thinking only of himself. His concern was first for his own experience, disregarding the heart of Jesus and the needs of others. He had an attitude of possessiveness and entitlement.

Sadly, these various responses can be seen today among the body of Christ. Consider these examples and ask God to reveal your heart.

• The church announces a work day. Martha signs up to help, Mary offers to buy the cleaning supplies and Judas says, “I was at the last work day. It is someone else’s turn to clean.”
• A teenager who is rough around the edges, struggling with some addictions and coming from an unchurched family walks in the door. Martha offers him a ride to all future youth group events, Mary offers to pay his way to camp and Judas complains that there are cigarette butts in the church parking lot.
• The state posts the abortion statistics for the local community and the lives of 350 babies are reflected in last year’s numbers. Martha volunteers her time and Mary writes a check to the local pregnancy center, while Judas looks the other way and complains if the church brings up the topic of abortion — after all, it makes everyone uncomfortable.
• A man walks out on his wife and kids, filing for divorce. Martha volunteers to babysit, Mary brings over a week’s worth of groceries, and Judas says, “There’s always two sides to every story — I’m sure she shares some of the fault in their marriage going bad. Pastor, you need to find someone else to teach her Sunday School class.”

WHAT WILL MY RESPONSE BE?

Heavenly Father, reveal to me any “Judas” traits I might have. Forgive me for the times when I have put my own desires ahead of the needs of others, or the times when I have been too busy to honor you. Forgive me for the times when I have judged others instead of showing love. Help me to always see how different my life would be without your intervention and healing.

Lord Jesus, may I never forget your generosity but always be generous towards you. May the fragrance of my devotion to you be a blessing to all those in the house. Grow the “Martha” and “Mary” in me so that my first response is service and generosity. Like Lazarus, thank you for allowing me to experience your presence this morning as I drink my morning coffee.