Matthew 4:12-17
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.
Read Matthew 4:12-17 noticing how Jesus’ actions fulfill what was written about the Messiah in the Older Testament.
In Jesus’ day Nazareth was a small, insignificant village in the somewhat remote area of Galilee which shared borders with several Gentile regions. Capernaum was a larger town in Galilee that lay about 80 miles north of the center of Israel’s religious activity in Jerusalem. Both Jews and Gentiles lived in the towns and villages of Galilee.
Stop to consider the significance of Jesus setting up his headquarters in this diverse region. How do you react to this? Tell Jesus what you are thinking.
After identifying with humanity through his baptism and winning a decisive battle over the temptations that plague people, it is to this diverse city that the Light of the World comes to launch his mission to return the world to God’s perfect design. Where Israel failed to be a light to the nations, The light of Jesus now shines brightly for Jews and Gentiles alike.
How are you seeking to emulate Jesus in seeking out people who are different than you? If you are being purposeful to seek diversity in your relationships, how are people experiencing the light of Jesus through you? Share your thoughts with Jesus.
Read Matthew 4:12-17 again focusing on Jesus’ words.
The Kingdom of Heaven is not a place, it’s the realm where everything is the way God intended it to be before human rebellion ushered destruction and unchecked chaos into the world. Since then, every person ever born has turned away from God’s perfect rule and way and is being continually pulled further from the Source of life. Jesus’ message is clear and simple: “Turn around.” The Kingdom of Heaven has come near, and God walks among people.
Get still for a moment or two and meditate on the idea that God is with people in Jesus.
Now sit with the fact that if you believe in and follow Jesus, his Holy Spirit lives within you.
What would you like to say to Jesus right now?
What do you sense Jesus saying to you?
Is there anything Jesus is inviting you to do in response? If so, take action.
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