Monday, July 6, 2026
Luke 14:12–14
Luke 14:7-11
In human life, so much revolves around status. Even while watching the World Cup, it's clear when they cut to the shots of the fans in the stands that some are more important than others. Those with status have more space and comfort. Status matters.
In God's economy, things are measured differently. Humility is celebrated because it's an acknowledgement that we only join God's Kingdom because of what God has done for us. We haven't earned our way in there. God has welcomed us with open arms and atoned for our brokenness.
The path of humility is seen most fully on the cross, where Jesus was willing to ascend to humiliation so that others might be healed and made whole. His humility makes a path forward, a way through the wilderness.
The Kingdom is different. Down is up.
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Luke 14:1–6
Luke 14:1-6
This reminds me a little of Teddy Roosevelt's Man in the Arena portion of his speech. In it, he's lauding those who actually do, to the derision of those who opt to criticize.
Here is Jesus, asking those present at the dinner if it's lawful to heal him. None are willing to object, for that would be discarding mercy, but they also aren't willing to defend the act of healing him, for that might entail breaking what had become a rather onerous set of rules to guide Sabbath observation. None of the people there, many leading religious figures, is willing to take a stand. They instead will sit back and wait to criticize Jesus, regardless of what he does.
Jesus opts to heal, showing mercy, for such acts are not a violation of God's law. If you have the chance to rescue another, you should choose that. None of those present at the dinner is able to defend not healing the man. They're speechless.
So worry not about those who sit back and criticize. They will always be present. Seek mercy for the world, working for healing, and trust that in following the example of Christ, the Gospel is being proclaimed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)