Luke 9:49-56
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.
Recall Jesus’ words in Luke 9:46-48 and then read Luke 9:49-56.
If the disciples failed to understand Jesus before, this incident highlights the fact that they are still not getting the point. Jesus has just explained that in God’s estimation greatness is ascribed to those who consider themselves “least.” But John (representing the rest of the disciples) is feeling threatened by some folks outside the inner circle who are doing good works in Jesus’ name. The need to feel special is blinding the disciples to one of the foundational characteristics of God’s Kingdom – the Kingdom is not exclusive. It multiplies.
Think back to Jesus’ teaching just after he assembled the first disciples:
“God blesses you who are poor [destitute, helpless],
for the Kingdom of God is yours.” – Luke 6:20
Take some time to consider how this teaching affects your relationships with people outside your inner circle. Talk to Jesus about this.
Read Luke 9:49-56 again focusing in on the second incident.
The Samaritans welcomed Jesus at one point in his ministry and Jesus welcomed them – even though the Israelites considered them enemies. But now the Samaritans are so bothered by the fact that Jesus is passing through Samaria to get to Jerusalem that they want nothing to do with him. And James and John want to retaliate with violence.
These two disciples have seen Jesus in all of his divine glory, but they have not understood the upside-down nature of the Kingdom of God. Jesus does not give his power and authority to be used for violence. Jesus’ ways are the ways of mercy, grace, and non-violence.
And Jesus’ love does not end when people reject him. Even when he is executed in Jerusalem, he will seek God’s forgiveness for those who inflict violence on him. And as his followers, we are called to do the same.
For the last minutes of this time of meditation, get quiet and let your thoughts settle. Focus on the name of Jesus as you breathe. When you feel still and centered, listen to Jesus for a while.
What do you hear Jesus saying to you today?
What will you do about that?
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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.
