Today’s scripture: Matthew 11:25-30 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Penny Dean):
No one in my family of origin has ever been a sports fan. In fact, we never read the sports section of the local paper. But, because I wanted to get to know my in-laws better, I spent a lot of time watching football this past season. I think I entertained them with my lack of knowledge: “What’s Peyton’s wife like?” ”What’s that black stuff for?” “Doesn’t the coach ever smile?” As a result, we have the beginnings of a relationship. I’m even referred to as “family.”
This is also how we get to know God: by becoming as intimate with him as with our earthly families. And it’s not hard. There is no esoteric knowledge, no great mental tests nor secret handshakes. In fact, Jesus says God is not revealed to those who believe they are wise and learned: “You’ve concealed your ways from sophisticates and know-it-alls, but spelled them out clearly to ordinary people.” (The Message) That sort of attitude gets in the way of intimacy.
I was raised in a fundamentalist church with a lot of rules. Most of those could be summed up in the mantra “Don’t drink, don’t smoke, don’t chew, don’t go out with boys who do.” Subscribing to a list of ‘don’ts’ seems simple enough — and that last one OK for me — but it also leads one to think “I can’t.” I can’t go to the movies/dance/do anything right. But Jesus says, “Yes you can.” “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life.” (The Message)
While it would take years of practice and dedication to become a spiritual Peyton Manning (even he wasn’t born a football player), anyone can talk to God and hear from God. And just as recovering the football from a failed play can lead to a touchdown, you can also recover your life even though you may feel you’ve failed many times before.
I failed in several relationships before setting aside all my preconceived notions of what an ideal relationship should be like. Because I know I’ve found “the one,” I am happy to learn about football. And, as a result, some of my in-laws accompanied me to the Lincoln exhibit at the Indiana State Museum. Apparently they want to know me better, too.
Thought for the day: Do I have an attitude that is keeping me from spending time with God? How can I enhance my spiritual practice?
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.