Matthew 13:51-52
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’s parable is the last that Matthew includes in his Gospel. Before you go on, re-read the Parable of The Fishing Net and recall what you sensed Jesus saying to you. Then read Matthew 13:51-52.
Whenever we encounter a question that Jesus asks someone in the Gospels, it’s a good idea to stop and imagine him asking it of us. Take a moment to do this right now:
“Do you understand all these things?”
Stay with the question for a moment and then share your thoughts with Jesus.
The disciples seem very sure that they understand Jesus, but we know that in a very short period of time they will abandon him in his darkest hour and run away in fear and confusion. Jesus’ question isn’t a trick, it’s an opportunity for them to recognize the limitations of their own understanding and allow Jesus to continue reshaping and refining their ideas and beliefs.
The same holds true for all of us who claim to follow Jesus.
Read Matthew 13:51-52 again focusing on the images in the parable.
The teachers of religious law were not automatically excluded from God’s Kingdom – they were most welcome. And the depth of understanding they could bring to Jesus’ teachings was valuable. Like a gem, they could hold up a nugget of truth from Scripture to the light of Jesus and discover new facets of that truth.
Imagine yourself holding up a nugget of truth and allowing Jesus’ light to reveal something new to you.
For the last minutes of this time of reflection, take a short passage from the Older Testament and hold it up to the light of Jesus recalling what you know of his character and teaching in the Gospels. If you can’t think of a passage, try using Psalm 1.
Then take a moment or two to quiet yourself and consider these questions:
What is Jesus saying to you today?
What will you do in response?
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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.
