Today’s scripture: Luke 20:9-19 (NRSV) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
Larry, a man I used to work with, likes to go dumpster diving. Among other things, he’s found a book valued at $600 and three antique tables worth about $1,000. His best find, both monetarily and compassionately by far, though, has been at a yard sale. He knowingly walked away with a diamond ring for $20; its retail value was about $3,000. Well, he sort of did…
Larry had been in the jewelry business for a number of years and instantly knew the setting in the ring was a diamond solitaire. He tried to guide the owner into recognizing this fact by asking her some leading questions and making comments that would apply only to diamonds. But the lady was quite firm in her belief that it was “merely costume jewelry” and wanted just $20 for it. So Larry paid the asking price and left with the item.
He took it to a jeweler for an appraisal. That was when even Larry was surprised to learn of its real value. All along, Larry had known he would feel like a swindler if he never shared the true value of the diamond, even though he had no legal obligation to do so. (Larry’s just the sort of guy with a moral compass that points in the right direction: toward Jesus.) So he returned the ring to the lady, told her the whole story and gave it back to her. Through her tears, she asked why he did this for her. Being the humble man he is, Larry answered that she reminded him of his grandmother.
The religious leaders in today’s reading remind me of the lady who didn’t know the value of what she had. Jesus was dropping all sorts of clues as to who he was throughout his ministry. When he finally dropped a bombshell parable that made them stop and realize that Jesus wasn’t going to be subtle forever, why didn’t they sit up and take notice in a positive way? Or at least start asking Jesus some real, honest questions? Jesus never turned down anyone who genuinely sought him.
Jesus never turns down anyone who genuinely seeks him today, either.
Thought for the day: Thank you, Jesus, for being willing to welcome me as your follower. The Holy Spirit (your presence on earth in your stead now) will guide me; all I have to do is sincerely seek to follow you.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.