Could you share your love in the face of hate?

 When asked, who we should love (Luke 10), Jesus responded with a story about the "good Samaritan." In the story, Jesus described a man who generously cared for another man, who should have been considered his natural enemy. The story emphasizes the care we should take in loving our enemies. How have you been able to show love to those who seem to hate you?

The God of Weeping and Laughing

A single event can bring tears and laughter. Consider Ezra 3, when the new temple's foundation was laid. The young people shouted for joy with excitement, while the older men wept loudly. We can take comfort in knowing that the God of happy shouting is also the God of great despair. No matter what you are feeling, God should be a part of that experience.

Happy to be here

 

Christians often use Psalm 122 to remind us of the blessing we receive when we attend church. However, we should take care no to mistake our church buildings for God's presence. When we gather, either in person or through virtual meeting (Matt 18:20), we are benefiting from seeing God's spirt in our brothers and sisters (John 14).  How are you finding others to worship with?

Honor cannot be seized

When viewing an altercation for the "seats of honor" at a dinner, Jesus told a short story about a man who took a position of honor that did not belong to him. The story ends with the man being shamed while he is sent to a place of less significance (Luke 14).  How do you seek honor that might not belong to you? Can you take comfort in the fact that Christ gave up his position of honor for you?

 

Do you feel like the older brother?

 

The famous parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15),  reminds of God's great forgiveness to those who stray from his love. The end of the story becomes an indictment of our failure to forgive and embrace those we consider irresponsible or "lost." The prodigal's older brother refuses to join the celebration and welcome his brother home. The story shows how we hurt ourselves when we refuse to forgive and welcome others.

What are you worth?

 

Jesus told of a woman who searched diligently for a lost coin (Lk 15:8-10). Once she found the coin, she rejoiced greatly and even called her friends to join her in her celebration. This story reveals how God feels when we return to His care. At times we all feel worthless, but this story reminds us that the creator of everything values us greatly and rejoices when we seek Him. How can you seek Him today?

Have you plead your case?

 

Jesus once told a story about a corrupt judge, who refused to provide justice for a widow who had suffered wrong-doing. Although the judge was not motivated by good intentions, he still did what was right, just so that he wouldn't have to hear the widow complain. Jesus then asked, if even a corrupt judge will answer the pleas of the oppressed, how much more will God? (Lk 18) What are pleading with God over?