Matthew 18:7-10
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
If you haven’t already, read Matthew 18:1-6 and then read today’s passage, Matthew 18:7-10.
The sad reality of human rebellion against God is that God’s good creations have been misused and distorted. For instance, power in its purest form is not evil. Humans were created to rule with God and have dominion over the wildness of creation. But when humans refused to stay under the good rule and way of God, they began to exercise power over each other seeking to take dominion over people to increase their own kingdoms rather than build God’s.
And we are all susceptible to the desire for this distorted form of power.
You may not feel all that powerful but take some time to consider your desire or need for control and power over other people. Who around you do you wish you could change or subdue? Over whom in your sphere of relationships do you wish you could exercise control?
Share your thoughts as clearly and honestly as you can with Jesus now.
Read Matthew 18:7-10 again noting the extreme language Jesus uses.
Jesus has already made it abundantly clear that sin originates in intellect and heart – in our thoughts and in our unexamined and unrestrained desires – so he is obviously not saying here that a person’s eye or hand can lead them into sinful behavior. But he is emphasizing the essential disposition of someone who claims to follow him.
True disciples of Jesus are willing to cast aside anything that hinders them from becoming like him and being part of the Kingdom of God. And being like Jesus means living for the good of others -even those who society would rather ignore or forget.
Who are the “little ones” you encounter in your day-to-day life? They may be children, but they might also be vulnerable people who others treat as invisible.
Take a moment to return to the words of Jesus below from Matthew 16:24-25:
“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will find it.”
Now get quiet and breathe in the presence of Jesus as you listen to him.
What do you sense Jesus saying to you today?
What will you do about that?
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