Author: SeekGrowLove

Take Heed! Be on the Alert!

Mark 13

Gone are the days when the majority of households across the United States and Canada left their homes unlocked day and night.  The idyllic scene of a squeaky screen door being pushed open and banging closed, has faded even in small town America.

The first home security system was invented in 1966 and patented in 1969 by Marie Van Brittan Brown.  Marie’s husband often traveled for work, and she didn’t feel secure answering the door in his absence. The system she created consisted of two peepholes, a TV monitor, a two-way microphone and a sliding camera.  Marie could see who was at her door and interact with them from inside the safety of her home.

From that time to the present, home security has been revolutionized.  Wireless technology, video surveillance, integration with smart devices, AI, and cloud -based systems seamlessly work together to provide protection and peace of mind for countless households. 

But what about when you step out your door?  One of the tenets of personal safety, away from your home, is to be aware of your surroundings.  Pay attention when you’re walking down the street, loading packages into your car in the Mall parking lot, or even sitting in a restaurant.  Don’t have your face riveted to your phone.  Look up!  Pay attention!  TAKE HEED! 

The last two-word warning, “TAKE HEED,” was used by Jesus four times in Mark 13, KJV.  Other translations, such as the NIV or the NASB, translate the phrase “watch out,” “see to it,” and “be on guard.”

Mark 13 is known as the Olivet Discourse, (also found in Matthew 24 and Luke 21.)  Jesus begins teaching his disciples after they mention the temple’s majestic buildings, and he answers that these magnificent structures will be destroyed.  Peter, James, John and Andrew ask Jesus when this is going to happen, and what needs to happen first. 

Jesus’ response includes a discourse detailing persecution, and current, continuing and end-time prophecies.  And throughout this dialogue, he warns, “TAKE HEED!” 

“And Jesus began to say to them, ‘TAKE HEED that no one misleads you.’” (Mark 13:5)  Many individuals will claim to be Christ.  Various wars and natural disasters will happen.  This is just the starting point.

In verse 9, Jesus warns the disciples to look out for their personal safety.  “TAKE HEED, for they will deliver you to the courts, and you will be flogged in the synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them.”  He reassures the disciples not to be anxious when they are arrested, for the Holy Spirit will speak through them. 

Jesus continues in the succeeding verses, sharing details of a terrible time of trouble and suffering, ending with “TAKE HEED” in verse 23.  “But TAKE HEED; behold, I have told you everything in advance.”

Finally, after unparalleled occurrences in the skies—darkened sun, falling stars and more—Jesus tells his disciples he will return with great power and glory.  No one but God knows when that will happen.  Not the angels, not even Jesus.

“TAKE HEED, keep on the alert; for you do not know when the appointed time will come.”  (Mark 13:33)

Jesus expands on this warning by giving an example of a man on a journey, away from his house, who instructed the doorkeeper to stay alert.  The doorkeeper did not know when the man might return.  Perhaps he would be found asleep, not ready for his master’s return. 

Jesus ends his teaching with authority.  “Be on the alert!”  (Mark 13:37b)

Unlike the doorkeeper in Jesus’ example, (verses 34-36), who might not be ready, Marie Van Brittan Brown, the inventor of the first home security system, wanted to be prepared if someone knocked on her door.  She wanted to know who was on the other side. 

You can know who is waiting patiently to enter the door of your heart.  Just listen. 

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”  (Revelation 3:20,21)

Luke 21:28, (also the Olivet Discourse) says, “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

Let’s face each day with a head lifted up in praise of our Creator, and a heart prepared and anticipating the return of our Savior.  Come Lord Jesus! 

Reflection Questions

  1. Jesus said the Holy Spirit would speak for the disciples after they were arrested.  How has God’s Spirit spoken through you in times of trial?
  2. Think of a time when you were “on alert” in your life.  How did God help you?
  3. How are you preparing each day for Jesus’ return? 
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All In

Matthew 23 & Luke 20-21

When my husband’s younger brother was a preschooler, so the story goes, he had a particularly busy day, playing and being active.  Near bedtime, he declared to his family, “I’m all ‘shampooed’ out”.  Following the ensuing laughter, his parents agreed he was indeed tuckered out; he was “all in.”

The phrase, “I’m all in” can mean a person is exhausted.  But another understanding of that expression is a person’s declaration that he/she is completely devoted, totally committed, to a cause or endeavor.  “I’m all in to lose the weight.”  “I’m all in to win the championship.”  “I’m all in to elect this candidate.”

If you’re all in, you are going to give it your best effort, give it as much time and resources as possible, give it your all.  You are all in! 

A beautiful example of this idea is found in Luke 21:1-4, the familiar account of the widow’s offering.  Jesus had been teaching in the temple.  The scribes, chief priests, and Sadducees had been questioning him, trying to entrap Jesus when he answered, so they could deliver him to the authority of the governor. 

Finally, they realized their trick questions were not going to work. 

“Some of the scribes answered and said, ‘You have spoken well.’ For they did not have courage to question Him any longer about anything.” (Luke 20:39,40)

In response, as all the people listened, Jesus said to his disciples, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love respectful greetings in the marketplaces, and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets, who devour widows’ houses, and for appearance’s sake offer long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”  (Luke 20: 46,47)

Among the prideful things that the scribes were doing, was robbing widows of their homes and resources.  The New American Standard and New International Bible versions use the word “devour” to describe the scribes’ actions. 

Devour–“eat up greedily”–“prey upon.”  Not a pleasant picture.

The Living Bible vividly describes it this way. “But even while they are praying long prayers with great outward piety, they are planning schemes to cheat widows out of their property.  Therefore, God’s heaviest sentence awaits these men.” (Luke 20: 46,47) 

 Immediately after Jesus’ condemnation of the scribes, he looks up to see rich men depositing large amounts of money into the offering receptacles.  And then Jesus spots the poor widow. Carefully, she placed two copper coins, the smallest class of currency, into the offering box.  Jesus’ reaction?

“Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all of them; for they all out of their SURPLUS put into the offering; but she out of her POVERTY put in ALL that she had to live on.” 

Jesus saw the widow’s humble gift—two coins that equaled a penny.  How miniscule in man’s eyes. How sacrificial in Jesus’ eyes.  The rich still had their fortunes; the widow had nothing left in worldly goods.  Her pure heart and strong faith would sustain her.  God would provide for her needs. 

The poor widow was “all in.”  

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.  So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.”  (Matt. 6:33,34a)

God desires our time, talents, service—to put Him first in everything we do.  The reward will be great. 

As Paul stated at the end of his ministry, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”  (II Tim. 4:7,8)

But to those who CLAIM allegiance to God, with a half-hearted commitment, Jesus has sharp words.

 “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,’ and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked” (Revelation 3:15-17)

The pretentious piety of the rich was false—in Jesus’ eyes they were poor and wretched–understandably lukewarm.  The poor widow’s offering, two copper coins, was all she had in the world.  She gave it willingly, trustfully, faithfully. 

She was ALL IN!

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it take to truly see the needs of others?
  2. Reflect on the widow’s offering, and then put yourself in her place.  Would you have given the two coins? 
  3. What can you change in your life to be “all in” for the Lord? 
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GOAT

Matthew 22 & Mark 12

Devotion by Paula Kirkpatrick (Minnesota)

When you hear the term GOAT, what do you think of?  A furry four-legged animal with horns that has been known to butt humans or “faint?”  Or a term that has become familiar in the 21st century sports world—GOAT—Greatest of All Time. 

When I was a school librarian a few years ago, I added four “GOAT” books to the library.  They were all part of the “Sports Illustrated Kids: GOATS” series.  The students could check out “Olympic GOATS” and read about gymnast Simone Biles or swimmer Michael Phelps; “Football GOATS” and read about Tom Brady and Allan Page; “Basketball GOATS” and study the skills of Michael Jordan and LeBron James; or “Baseball GOATS” and read about famous players Sandy Koufax and Ted Williams.

We can speculate about the greatest sports figures, or the greatest actors in Hollywood, or the greatest leaders in world history.  But one cannot dispute the greatest commandment in the Bible.

“But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. One of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, ‘Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?’ And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.’”  (Matt. 22:34-40)

We can see an expansion of Jesus’ words in our corresponding reading from Mark 12: 28-32 when Jesus says in verse 29, “Hear O Israel!  The Lord our God is one Lord,” before his declaration of the two greatest commandments.  In Mark 12:31b, Jesus says, “There is no other commandment greater than these.” 

These two commandments are the “GOATS” of the Bible. 

Jesus’ answer to the lawyer, who was trying to test him, was quoted directly from the Law.  Deuteronomy 6:5 says, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” and Leviticus 19:18 says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”  

In our Matthew passage, verse 40, Jesus adds this statement.  “On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”

What does Jesus mean by that? 

The entirety of the Law and the prophecies found throughout Scripture, were given to humanity to encourage us to love and exalt our Creator and to love His creation, particularly mankind.  This should be our ultimate purpose in life.

Jesus shared a similar directive in the Sermon on the Mount when he said, “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matt. 7:12)

The Law regulated every facet of life in a Jewish family and Jewish hierarchy.  The voice of God’s prophets had instructed and corrected His people.  Yet the entirety of the Law and the Prophets meant essentially nothing if not established on these two simple commands, two greatest commands. Love God entirely.  Love others as you love yourself. 

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. We love, because He first loved us.”  (I John 4:7,11,19)

The GOATS of the world eventually change over time.  New athletes break sports records, Hollywood stars replace revered ones, and new world leaders accomplish historic milestones.

But the GOATS of the Scripture have never changed, will never change into eternity. 

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Reflection Questions

  1. Who do you think are some GOATS in sports or movies?
  2. How much of what you do and believe is based on these two commandments?
  3. What can you change or improve in your life this week to better follow these commandments?
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Seeking Whose Approval?

Mark 11 & John 12

Perhaps the saddest words in English literature are found in the poem, “Maud Muller,” by John Greenlear Whittier.  The poem recounts the story of a farm maid, Maud Muller, who is raking hay in a meadow.  A town judge on horseback passes by, and they exchange pleasant greetings.  He asks for a drink of water from the bubbling spring, and she fills her cup and offers it to him.

After the encounter, as the years go by, she considers what life might have been like as the wife of a judge, possessing wealth and servants.  He, in turn, considers what life might have been like without the stress of his position, but instead married to the maiden, enjoying a simple rural life.

Near the poem’s end, Whittier penned these lines.

“For all sad words of tongues and pen, the saddest are these: ‘It might have been.’”

All of us, whether young or old, can look back at our lives and have regrets.  Words we might have said, places we might have gone, decisions we might have made. 

In our Bible reading today, we find a deeply sad and somber passage contained in one short phrase. 

“For they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God.”  John 12:43

It was the week of the Feast of the Passover, and Jesus’ ultimate betrayal and crucifixion.  A great multitude had greeted Jesus with “Hosanna” and palm branches when he entered Jerusalem.  After the joyous welcome, Jesus had once again explained the coming events of his life to the large crowd gathered around him. 

“And Jesus answered them, saying, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.  He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.Now my soul has become troubled; and what shall I say, ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour.’” (John 12:23-27)

Then Jesus continues in verses 32-33, “‘And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.’ But He was saying this to indicate the kind of death by which He was to die.”

The crowd questions Jesus in verse 34.  “We have heard out of the Law that the Christ is to remain forever; and how can You say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up’? Who is this Son of Man?”  Amazingly, they ask ‘Who is the Son of Man’ as Jesus stands before them! 

Jesus responds by saying that he—the light—will only be with them a short while longer.  The people need to believe in the light—believe in him—while he is still with them. (vs. 35-36) What more can he say?

Jesus performed signs and miracles before the multitude.  He taught them, cared for them, and was compassionate towards them.  But they did not believe, fully believe. 

Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled.  (Isaiah 6:9,10) Blinded eyes and hardened hearts don’t lead to conversion. (John 12:39, 40)

And then we come to verses 42-43, an explanation for their hardened hearts. 

“Nevertheless many even of the rulers believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they were not confessing Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue.”  

Remarkably, there WERE many who believed in him, even rulers.  They understood Jesus’ words, his plea: “While you have the light, believe in the light.”  But they would not acknowledge him.  Their positions in the synagogues were at risk.  Their status was threatened.  They could not take a chance, could not jeopardize their standing. It was not to be.

“For they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God.”

Each morning when you wake up, whose approval are you seeking?  As you go throughout your day, making small and big decisions, whose blessing do you pursue?  At the end of your day, what or who carried you through? 

Let us resolve together that each of our waking hours, each of our thoughts or actions, be grounded in the approval of God.

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”  (Hebrews 10:23)

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to you to seek the approval of God?
  2. How do you seek the approval of God in your life? 
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To See and Be Seen

Luke 18:15-19:48

Devotion by Paula Kirkpatrick (Minnesota)

What do you think, when you hear the name Zacchaeus?  Short man, tax -gather, tree-climber.  All correct.  But there’s more to think and learn about this man, as we consider his conversion in Luke 19:1-10. 

The Bible tells us that Zacchaeus was rich.  This reality seemed to be common among tax-gathers in Jesus’ day, mainly because they consistently cheated people as they collected taxes.  Tax collectors were not only scorned by the Jewish people, but they were often shunned by them as well. 

Would you want to socialize with someone who claimed you owed more money to the government than you actually did, and kept your “stolen” funds for himself?  Of course not!

We can only imagine that Zacchaeus, despite his riches, felt the sting of rejection.  Besides his poor reputation as a “thief” to the masses, the Bible tells us he was short in stature.  His presence may not have been authoritative.  He was small in height, and a “small” man in his business dealings. 

But Zacchaeus was also curious.  The Bible says, “he was trying to see who Jesus was.” 

A multitude was passing through Jericho, following this stranger.  “Who was he?” Zacchaeus wondered. 

Running ahead, he climbed up a sycamore tree for a better view.  And to his utter disbelief, Jesus looked up into the tree and said, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house.”

Zacchaeus’ world was turned upside down, and instantly changed.  Hurriedly, he descended from the tree and welcomed Jesus into his home.  Onlookers reacted with disapproval, grumbling that Jesus “has gone to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.”

But Zacchaeus’ transformation was real.  In response to the crowd’s condemning remarks, he stopped in his tracks and declared, “Behold, Lord, half of my possessions I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much.”

No longer was he a short, scorned tax-gather of Jericho.  Zacchaeus was a fresh follower of the Son of Man. 

“Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.’”  (Luke 19:9,10)

In Sunday’s reading, the rich young ruler could not commit his entire life to following Jesus.  (Matt. 19:16-30)   How could he give up his lifestyle, his riches?  Sadly, he turned away from Jesus to go back to his opulent life. 

In contrast, Zacchaeus eagerly declared his charitable intentions to the listening crowd, with no prompting from Jesus.  His heart was forever changed.

What is it concerning the account of Zacchaeus that touches us so deeply?  Perhaps, it is that he never expected to be discovered in the sycamore tree that day.  He just wanted to see what all the commotion was about on the streets of Jericho.  Never could he have predicted that the man he was trying to see, would see HIM, would TRULY SEE HIM.  Zacchaeus, once a cheating tax collector, was now a follower of Jesus.

So many people in our world, in our daily personal world, need to be “seen” by us.  They are discouraged and depressed, hurting and hopeless.  They need a friend.  Jesus is waiting to be their friend.  He just needs an introduction.  Will you be the one to make it for him?

Reflection Questions

  1.  Have you ever felt “invisible” in your life or relationships?  Why?
  2. Why do you think Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus?  Did he feel, even with his riches, something was missing in his life?
  3. Think about someone who needs to be “seen” by Jesus this week.  What can you do?   
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Open Our Eyes, Lord

Matthew 20-21

Devotion by Paula Kirkpatrick (Minnesota)

Even as Jesus neared the end of his earthly ministry, he daily continued to teach and to heal.  Leaving Jericho on his way to Jerusalem, (Matt. 20: 29-34), a great multitude followed him. 

Close your eyes and imagine the sounds of the boisterous crowd—lighthearted laughter among the men as they swapped stories; shrieks and giggles from the children as they ran ahead of their parents; crying babies consoled by their mothers.  But above the increasing din of the devoted crowd, pleading voices shouted out to Jesus.

“Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David.”  Two blind men, sitting by the road, had understood the chatter of the passing people.  Jesus was nearby! 

Their cries riled the multitude, and they demanded that the men be silent.  But the crowd’s command encouraged the two men even more.  “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David.” 

Jesus stopped and regarded the two pleading men.  “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 

They said to Him, “Lord, we want our eyes to be opened.”

The Scriptures say Jesus was moved with compassion.  Picture his concern, his tenderness as he gazed upon them.  Reaching down, Jesus touched their eyes, and IMMEDIATELY they regained their sight.  “And followed him.”

We can only ponder how joyfully the two men joined the crowd that had tried to silence them, the crowd that now heard their shouts of praise.  Jesus had healed them, and their lives would never be the same.  Not only had the blind men’s eyes been opened, their hearts had been stirred. 

Jesus was moved with compassion when he saw them.  The blind men, now healed, were moved with devotion when they followed him. 

There’s a worship chorus that puts it so simply.

“Open our eyes, Lord.

We want to see Jesus.

To reach out and touch him.

And say that we love him.”

(Open Our Eyes Lord by Robert Cull)

Do we open our eyes each day to the wondrous compassion and love of our Savior?  Do we reflect on the matchless gift he has given us, the sacrifice of his life so ours might be saved?  Do we respond with love and affection to our “best friend?” 

Let this be our daily prayer. 

“Open our eyes, Lord

We want to see Jesus.”

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think the crowd tried to silence the two blind men?
  2. Why do you think Jesus asked, “What do you want me to do for you?”  Didn’t he already know?
  3. How will you “open your eyes” this week?
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Choosing to be Last

Matthew 19 & Mark 10

Devotion by Paula Kirkpatrick (Minnesota)

When I taught a primary Sunday School class many years ago, there were three eager learners in the class: a brother and sister, and another young boy who was their cousin.  The brother and sister were blond and blue-eyed, a sharp contrast to their cousin’s thick dark hair and brown eyes, but each one was bright and engaging, and so fun to teach.  They were also quite competitive.

“Who’s going to pass out the crayons?” I asked.  “I will,” declared one student, only to be challenged by another voice chiming in, “No, I will!”  Inevitably, the remaining student would declare, “I want to do it!  It’s my turn!” 

For several weeks, this vocal battle ensued each time a new task presented itself during our classtime.  We tried to keep track of “turns,” but it still didn’t seem to quiet the noise, or the challenge of, “No, it’s my turn!  He did it last week.”  Our precious learning time was being shortened by these weekly squabbles.

I needed a solution and Scripture provided the answer.  Matt. 19:30 says, “But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.”  Mark 10:19 repeats the same sentence. 

In Matt. 19:16-30 and Mark 10:17-31 we find the story of Jesus’ encounter with the rich, young ruler. 

One day, as Jesus was walking along the road, a rich young man came up to him. “Teacher,” the man said, “what good thing should I do to have eternal life?”

Jesus answered, “You know the commandments.” Jesus then began to list several of them.

“I have obeyed all the commandments since I was young,” the rich young man replied.

Jesus looked at the young man and loved him.  Then, he said to him, “You lack only one thing. Sell all you have and give the money to the poor so that you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard those words, he turned and walked away because he had many possessions.

As the rich young man sadly departed, Jesus declared to his disciples, “How hard it will be for those who are wealthy to enter the kingdom of God.”  Jesus’ words amazed the disciples.  Then he repeated again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God.  It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 

Jesus’ statement astonished the disciples.  We can imagine them with eyes wide open, jaws dropped, and simply speechless for a few moments.  Finally, they asked, “Then who can be saved?”  Jesus responded, “with men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.”

The rich young ruler had followed the law.  Yet Jesus wanted him to sell everything he owned.  Jesus saw what the disciples could not see—the young ruler’s heart.  His status, his possessions, were more important than following the example of Jesus, who came to serve mankind and ultimately sacrifice his life for all. 

Peter, still trying to understand the meaning of his teacher’s words, exclaimed, “Behold we have left everything and followed you.” 

Jesus’ loving response brought assurance. 

The disciples’ present sacrifices would be rewarded in the age to come.  They had left family and livelihood to follow their beloved Master and assist him in his ministry.  To others, they appeared as common laborers, poor and at the bottom of society.  But in the coming kingdom, their status would be undisputed. 

Paul says it well in I Timothy 4:7-8.  “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith;in the future there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”

When I shared this story with my students, a change happened.  As we began our class the next Sunday, I asked, “Who’s going to pass out the crayons?” 

I received these responses.  “You go ahead and do it;” “No, you can go first;” “I want to be last!”  Attitudes had changed!

All three children now wanted to be LAST each and every time!

“But many who are first, will be last; and the last first.”

Reflection Questions

  1.  Why is it hard for wealthy people to follow Jesus? 
  2. What “riches” do you have in your life that make it difficult to live for Jesus?
  3. How can you be “last” as you interact with others this week?    
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Trust, Gratitude and Humble Prayer

Luke 17:11-18:14

Devotion by Jerry Wierwille (New York)

As Jesus continues his journey toward Jerusalem, he encounters people from all walks of life—outcasts, disciples, religious leaders, and ordinary men and women. In Luke 17:11–18:14, there are various stories and teachings involving miracles and parables where Jesus calls people to deeper trust, genuine gratitude, and humble prayer.

Trust and Thankfulness

This section of Scripture opens with Jesus traveling along the border between Samaria and Galilee. Ten men with serious skin diseases (traditionally translated as “lepers”), who were shunned by society and desperately wanted mercy, call out to him from a distance, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us” (Luke 17:13). Jesus responds not with an immediate healing, but with a command: “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” As they obeyed, they were cleansed. But while all ten were physically healed, one man (the Samaritan) displayed gratitude which brought him a deeper wholeness—spiritual as well as physical. Jesus tells him, “Your trust has made you whole” (Luke 17:19). The passage reveals that faith and thankfulness are both vital to experiencing the fullness of God’s blessing.

One helpful insight here is that trust often requires action before we see results. The lepers had to begin their journey to the priests while still unhealed. Their obedience was an expression of trust, and as they went, God’s power healed them. Trust, even as small as a mustard seed, has the power to move what seems immovable (cf. Luke 17:6).

Reflect: Where is God inviting you to trust him more, even before you see the outcome? How might cultivating a heart of gratitude open the door to God’s work in your life?

Persistence in Prayer

Jesus then tells the parable of The Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), encouraging his followers to “always pray, and not become discouraged.” The widow’s relentless pursuit of justice before an indifferent judge is contrasted with God’s attentive care for his people. If even an unjust judge can be moved by persistence, how much more will God respond to the cries of his beloved children when they persistently come to Him in prayer?

The parable is about the necessity of persistent prayer and unwavering hope, even when answers seem delayed. Jesus asks, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find trust on the earth?” (Luke 18:8). Our perseverance in prayer is an act of trust and also a testimony to our trust in God’s character.

Reflect: In what prayers do you need to be more persistent? What discouragements in your life can you bring honestly before God, trusting that he hears and cares?

Humility Before God

Finally, Jesus tells the parable of The Pharisee And The Tax Collector (Luke 18:9–14). The Pharisee stands confidently, listing his religious achievements and looking down on others. The tax collector, by contrast, stands at a distance, unable even to lift his eyes, but nonetheless, he prays: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Jesus declares that it is the humble tax collector who goes home “righteous,” not the devout Pharisee. The reason Jesus gives is that “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

This parable reveals that one must be humble when coming before God. Humility, openness, and a childlike posture are essential for receiving the kingdom of God (Luke 18:17). Our standing before God is not based on our prowess, devoutness, or accomplishments, but on our honest need for his mercy, because there is nothing we can do to deserve it.

Reflect: In what ways do you find yourself comparing your spiritual life to others? How can you approach God with greater humility and openness in your heart?

Encouragement

As you read these stories and teachings of Jesus, may you be inspired to trust in God more deeply, return thanks for His goodness and blessing, persist in prayer, and humble yourself before Him.

Jerry works on the REV Bible (revbible.com) as the chair of the REV Translation Committee and the lead NT translator. He also has a podcast on the Book of Proverbs called “Words of Wisdom” (stfi.org/podcasts/words-of-wisdom-podcast) that people can find on Spotify, Apple, Pandora, etc.

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The Resurrection and The Life

John 11

Devotion by Jerry Wierwille (New York)

Jesus was a master teacher but also a compassionate friend, deeply moved by the struggles and sorrows of those he loved. In John 11, we encounter one of the most powerful stories in the Gospels where we see Jesus’ emotion. This record invites us to consider how Jesus meets us in our grief, reveals the glory of God, and calls us to trust in God’s power—even when all hope seems lost.

The narrative opens with a startling circumstance—Lazarus, the beloved brother of Mary and Martha, is gravely ill. And so, the sisters send word to Jesus, confident in his love and his ability to heal. Yet, in a surprising twist, Jesus delays his journey. The text says, “Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. But when Jesus heard that Lazarus was sick, he didn’t depart immediate but stayed two days longer in the place where he was (John 11:5-6). This delay, however, does not show Jesus as being indifferent. Given the timing and distance for the message to travel, it is very likely that Lazarus died soon after the messenger was sent by Mary and Martha, and perhaps Jesus already knew this by revelation when the message arrived. Furthermore, Jesus knew that through this situation, though, God’s glory will be revealed in a way that will deepen the faith of his followers.

Reflect: When have you experienced a delay in answered prayer? How might God be using that time to deepen your trust or reveal His purpose?

Walking in the Light

When Jesus finally prepares to go to Judea, his disciples are concerned for his safety. Jesus responds, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world” (John 11:9). Jesus uses this physical reality to make a spiritual point: as long as we walk in the light of God’s revelation, we can move forward with confidence, even in dangerous or uncertain circumstances. Jesus models courageous trust in God, reminding us that our times are in God’s hands.

Reflect: What does it look like for you to “walk in the light” in your daily life? Where do you need courage to trust God’s guidance, even when the path is uncertain?

Jesus—the Resurrection and the Life

As Jesus approaches Bethany, Martha meets him with a mixture of faith and sorrow. She believes Jesus could have prevented her brother’s death, yet she holds onto hope that somehow Jesus might still do something. Jesus boldly declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though he dies” (John 11:25). This is not just a promise for the distant future; it is a present reality. Jesus reveals that through him, God’s life-giving power is available now, even in the face of death. Lazarus’ resurrection serves as a glimpse and foreshadowing of the future resurrection of all God’s people to new life.

Reflect: How does Jesus’ promise of resurrection shape your perspective on loss and the comfort of the hope? In what areas of your life do you need to trust that God’s power can bring new life?

The Glory of God Revealed

When Jesus sees Mary and the others weeping over Lazarus, he is deeply moved—so much so that he himself begins to weep (John 11:35). Jesus had a special attachment to Lazarus, and his tears show his genuine empathy and sorrow. Jesus’ grief is mingled with righteous anger at the pain and brokenness that death brings. He stands at the tomb, not as a rabbi or religious figure, but as a friend who was there with Mary and Martha in their pain.

Jesus intentionally prays out loud so that all those who were present at the tomb would believe that God sent him (John 11:42). Then, with a loud voice, Jesus called to Lazarus for him to come out of the tomb. As everyone stood there watching, Lazarus emerges from the tomb still wrapped in grave clothes. This miracle is a powerful display of God’s glory—His power in action. Lazarus’ resurrection is not the final victory over death, but a sign pointing to the greater hope that all who trust in Christ will one day be raised to everlasting life in the age to come.

Reflect: How does knowing that Jesus was moved by compassion encourage you in your own struggles? Who around you might need the comfort of your presence and solidarity today?

Encouragement

This record reminds us that Jesus meets us in our deepest pain and invites us to trust in God’s power and timing. Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and through him, we have hope that transcends even the death and the grave. May you find comfort in knowing that the same Jesus who wept at Lazarus’ tomb walks with you today, offering life, hope, and the promise of resurrection. Trust in God’s love, timing, and power in every circumstance in your life.

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The Master Teacher at Work

Luke 16:1-17:10

Devotion by Jerry Wierwille (New York)

Jesus was a master teacher, and he used parables to teach and challenge his listeners to reconsider their present attitudes or perspectives. In Luke 16, Jesus teaches on wealth, faithfulness, forgiveness, and humble service, inviting us to consider how our daily choices reflect our commitment to God’s kingdom and to live in light of the age to come.

Wise Stewardship and Eternal Perspective

Jesus begins this section with the Parable of the Wise Manager (Luke 16:1-9). In this story, a house manager is called to give an account of his stewardship after being accused of wasting his master’s possessions. Facing dismissal from his position, he shrewdly reduces the debts of his master’s debtors, hoping to secure their goodwill for his own future. Surprisingly, the master commends the manager—not for his dishonesty, but for his prudence and foresight. Jesus then says, “For the sons of this age are in their own generation more prudent than the sons of the light. And I myself say to you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they will receive you into the tents in the age to come” (Luke 16:8-9).

Scripture teaches that our resources—whether money, talents, or opportunities—are temporary and ultimately belong to God. Jesus calls us to use what we have now with a perspective toward the age to come, investing in relationships and acts of generosity that have lasting value in God’s kingdom. Furthermore, our “wealth” includes not only material goods, but also our mental and physical abilities. The challenge is to use all we have to prepare for the future life God promises rather than clinging selfishly to earthly treasures here and now.

Reflect: How can you use your resources today to bless others and honor God? What does it mean for you to “make friends” through your actions and generosity with respect to the age to come?

Faithfulness in Little and Much

Jesus continues on in Luke 16, saying, “The one who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10). This is such an important point about the need to be mindful of small things before thinking about larger things. In addition, Jesus warns that we cannot serve both God and wealth, for our loyalties will inevitably be divided (Luke 16:13). The religious leaders, who loved money, scoffed at Jesus’ teaching, but he reminded them that God knows the heart (Luke 16:14-15). Jesus’ emphasis is on faithfulness in small things as the foundation for greater areas of responsibility in God’s eyes. Our daily choices, even in seemingly insignificant matters, reveal where our true allegiance lies and where our focus is placed.

Reflect: In what “small” areas of your life is God calling you to be more faithful? How might your attitude toward money or possessions reflect the way you trust in God?

The Rich Man and Lazarus: A Warning and a Promise

Jesus then tells the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31). The rich man lives in luxury, ignoring the suffering of Lazarus, a poor beggar at his gate. After death, their roles are reversed: Lazarus is comforted, while the rich man is in torment. The parable warns that earthly status and comfort are fleeting, and that our response to the needs of others has eternal consequences. This story is a powerful call to compassion and to heed God’s Word, for “if they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded if one rises from among the dead” (Luke 16:31).

Reflect: Who are the “Lazarus-es” in your life—those in need whom God is calling you to notice and care for? How does this parable shape your view of justice and mercy?

Forgiveness, Faith, and Humble Service

In Luke 17:1-10, Jesus addresses the challenges of his followers with regard to their life in community with one another. He warns against causing others to stumble and commands a spirit of continual forgiveness: “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him…even if he sins against you seven times in the day” (Luke 17:3-4). Jesus’ disciples, feeling the weight of this command, cry out, “Increase our faith!” Jesus assures them that even faith as small as a mustard seed is powerful when a person trusts in God.

Finally, Jesus reminds his disciples that serving God is not about seeking recognition or reward. “When you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty’” (Luke 17:10). Even after faithful obedience to God, our attitude should be one of humility, not entitlement. We are to focus on our duty and responsibility as disciples and not be preoccupied thinking about what reward we might receive.

Encouragement

Jesus is calling us to live with wisdom, faithfulness, compassion, and humility as his disciples. As you reflect on these teachings, consider how you can steward your resources for God’s glory, forgive generously, and serve with a humble heart. May you find encouragement in knowing that God sees your faithfulness, values your compassion, and honors your humble service in His kingdom.

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