Matthew 8:14-17
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.
As we continue exploring Jesus’ miraculous demonstration of God’s Kingdom, read Matthew 8:14-17 slowly and thoughtfully.
Peter’s mother-in-law had obviously been taken into Peter’s household, most likely as a widow, and as such she occupied a very low rung of the social order – not much more than a servant’s status. But the only thing that matters to Jesus is that she is ill, and illness is not part of God’s original design for people. Jesus does not hesitate to touch this lowly woman and make her whole again.
The Kingdom of God is the dream God had for the world before human rebellion distorted God’s good and perfect ways. But the touch of Jesus sets things right, as God meant them to be. And Jesus’ touch is not reserved for the rich, the powerful, or the influencers. The Kingdom is open to anyone regardless of class, ethnicity, social status, or religious affiliation. All are welcome as long as they yeild to the touch of Jesus.
Peter’s mother-in-law responds in gratitude to Jesus using the only means available to her: she serves.
Stop to meditate on the areas of your life that have been set right by Jesus. Some areas may still be “in process,” but perhaps you can recognize how your life is different because of knowing Jesus.
What means are available to you to express your gratitude to Jesus? Speak to Jesus about this.
Read Matthew 8:14-17 again focusing on the fulfilled prophecy to which Matthew points.
Jesus didn’t heal every person on earth or even every person in Israel and Palestine during the three years of his earthly ministry. Jesus healed when he was proximate to a person in need. Often, people sought out proximity with Jesus (like the centurion from our last passage), but just as often Jesus healed when he encountered someone in need during the normal course of his travels. And still others were healed when someone came close to Jesus on their behalf.
Not everyone who requests physical healing from Jesus receives exactly what they ask for, but in the presence of Jesus there is always hope, because Jesus cares and Jesus is faithful.
How are you arranging your days so that you stay in close proximity to Jesus? Get quiet and contemplate this for a moment.
What do you believe Jesus might be inviting you to do as a result of today’s meditation?
What will you do about that?
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
