Today’s scripture: Matthew 8:14-22 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
I have met quite a few older saints in my life. Perhaps you know some yourself. They have seen a lot of things and been through quite a lot in their faith walk. As a result they never seem to have much patience for nonsense.
My old Baptist pastor was one of those “seasoned” saints and my childhood babysitter was another. Pure gold in their hearts but quick to tell you how it is, they never seemed to give much thought to your feelings or how you might respond to what they were saying to you. These folks believed in being honest and pulled no punches when it came to putting me in my place when such an action was necessary.
Often times when we think about Jesus and his character, it is easy and perhaps comforting to focus on the compassionate, understanding, loving side of Jesus. However today we encounter the brutally honest and straightforward side of Jesus.
As the reading for today opens up once again we encounter Jesus’ healing compassion as he tends to Peters mother-in-law and then to crowds of possessed and infirm. As word of these miracles began to spread we see two coming to declare a desire to follow Jesus. As Jesus responds to both of these men, we learn valuable lessons about what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ.
To the first man, a scribe, Jesus responds that this ministry comes with trials and hardships. Conditions for Jesus and his disciples were not always comfortable, and anyone following this King may find themselves as outcasts and characterized as criminals. Once we have made a decision to follow Christ, let us not be fooled into believing that the road will be easy or suddenly smooth. In fact, it has been my experience that once I knew the right path from the wrong path, it became harder to stay on track and personally disappointing when I find myself at odds with God.
We find a second disciple who requests that Jesus allow him to go bury his father first, and then come and follow Jesus. To this Jesus responds, “Come follow me and let the dead bury their own dead.” Jesus’ words seem to fly in the face of his earlier lesson of compassion towards Peter’s family. However, we have all bore witness to some who will make every excuse in the book rather than actually commit to following Christ. When I get things right, then I will join church; or when I finish this one thing, then I will give my life to Christ.
Today we hear from the Lord that the way might be difficult at times, but make no excuses and do not concern yourself with the issues of this world. Stay focused on Christ for the true prize and the most important things lie within Him.
Thought for the day: Today I’ll be brutally honest with myself: the way is not always easy. What excuses am I putting in the way of following Christ?
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