Luke 6:43-45
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on 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 near the end of Jesus’ teaching on relationships in God’s Kingdom, read Luke 6:43-45 remembering Jesus’ words about love in action.
Beliefs and values do not necessarily line up automatically. It is possible to intellectually acknowledge a principle or concept, and even believe that it is true and still remain unchanged. Beliefs exist on the surface of our consciousness whereas values are rooted so deeply in our hearts that we may not be aware of them - until we act or react in ways that reveal them.
Get still for a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts. Consider how your day-to-day actions line up with the teachings of Jesus regarding love and grace for all people – even those with whom you disagree or those you consider to be “enemies.” Consider what someone who knows you well might say about this. Share these thoughts honestly with Jesus.
Read Luke 6:43-45 again.
For broken people living in a world gone wrong, living out Jesus’ teaching on shalom relationships is impossible…unless. Unless Jesus actually lives in us and loves through us in ways that defy our natural tendencies.
Recall the first of the Beatitudes:
“God blesses you who are poor [destitute, starkly aware of your inability to help yourself] for the Kingdom of God is yours.”
For the remainder of your time in meditation today, get still and centered recognizing the presence of Jesus with you. When you feel ready, picture yourself before Jesus destitute and keenly aware of your helplessness to live and love according to his instructions. Notice what Jesus says and does in response. Let the scene play out for a while.
What is Jesus inviting you to remember or do today?
How do you plan to respond?
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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.
