Matthew 10:26-31
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.
Today we continue listening in as Jesus prepares his closest disciples before sending them out to proclaim and demonstrate the Good News of God’s Kingdom. Read Matthew 10:26-31 noticing any reactions you have as you read.
In the opening lines of the Old Testament book of Proverbs we read these words: “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge...” – Proverbs 1:7. This idea that humans should fear God can be confusing, because although Scripture states that God is love, completely and definitively, Scripture also makes clear that God is holy and just and cannot abide injustice and sin.
Imperfect humans can never hope to draw near to a perfectly holy God, and yet God came near to us in Jesus. And Jesus offers his holiness to anyone who places their trust in him. Because of Jesus we can stand before God and experience God’s unfailing love.
Stop to contemplate the outrageous gift of God’s love to you through Jesus. As you meditate on this, imagine the love of God washing over you filling your soul to overflowing.
Read Matthew 10:26-31 again noticing any difference in the way you react to Jesus’ words.
The knowledge of God’s character is a firm foundation on which to stand. When we enter into God’s presence through the way opened by Jesus, we begin to experience God’s power and faithfulness in our lives, and we grow in our ability to trust God whatever comes our way. Our faith grows when we have personal knowledge of both God’s power and God’s love.
The love of God given to us through Jesus is so compelling that when we truly experience it nothing else will suffice. God knows us fully – down to the hairs on our head – and nothing we face in life can change that.
For the last minute or two of this mediation, go into silence. Notice your breath and allow any intruding thoughts to pass by. Become aware of God’s presence with you as you continue in silence.
What might God be inviting you to learn or do as a result of Jesus’ words today?
What will you do about that?
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