Luke 14:12–14

Luke 14:12-14 

English Standard Version 

  Jesus is trying to teach us about transactional love.  We make lots of transactions in life, and the problem is when we wander into transactional relationships.  We look to people and think about what we can get out of them.  

  So Jesus wants us to be intentional about spending time with people who can't do anything for us, to learn to love people for the sake of people, to find joy in them as fellow people made in the image of God, the way God loves us -- not because God needs something from us, but because God is love and treasures us.  

  

Fireworks and the Gospel

Luke 14:12–14

Luke 14:7-11 

English Standard Version 

  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.  

Sermon on the Good Samaritan (July 5, 2026)