Most of us are aware of how negative things can distract us from following Jesus, but we may fail to recognize that sometimes the allure of good things can do the same. This was the point of one of Jesus’ parables to the people. Jesus taught that a master had prepared a banquet and invitedContinue reading “Distracted by the Good”
Category Archives: Jesus
The Love and Wisdom of Jesus
On an occasion in which Jesus taught in the synagogue on the Sabbath, he saw a woman who was disabled for 18 years. She was crippled to the extent that she could not stand up straight. When he saw her, he healed her by laying hands upon her for which she glorified God. However theContinue reading “The Love and Wisdom of Jesus”
Rest In Our Father’s Care
Jesus warned his disciples not to fear what their enemies could do to them (Luke 12:1-7), because their enemies only had power in the physical realm, but no power in the spiritual. Rather, they were to respect God who had authority and power in both the physical and spiritual realms. As God cares for nature,Continue reading “Rest In Our Father’s Care”
Choosing The Better Over The Good
The story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42 is a curious one. It reveals that the values of Jesus’ Kingdom are quite opposite to the values of the world. In our world those who accomplish are valued and praised. Martha was a doer; she accomplished; she served Jesus. She was also stressed out becauseContinue reading “Choosing The Better Over The Good”
Jesus Meets Our Real Needs
While Jesus was alone praying, his disciples gathered around him. Jesus asked who the people said he was. Responding, the disciples said John the Baptist, Elijah or one of the ancient prophets raised again. Then Jesus directed his question to the disciples and asked them, Peter responded that he was the Christ (Messiah) of God,Continue reading “Jesus Meets Our Real Needs”
Defeating Fear
The account of Jesus accompanying Jairos to heal his daughter reminds us of an important life principle. When messengers from Jairos’ home came to inform him that his daughter had died, Jesus told him not to be afraid. Literally, Jesus told him to stop being afraid, and believe or have faith. Jairos was to haveContinue reading “Defeating Fear”
Freedom or Fear
Jesus came to set people free! His purpose is revealed in the liberation of the man possessed by many demons. The man’s liberation set off a chain of events which revealed much about him and those living in that area. Oddly, rather than rejoicing because the man had been healed, his neighbors were filled withContinue reading “Freedom or Fear”
Moment of Truth
At certain times in our life we encounter situations that can define the rest of our life. After Pilate heard the priests declare that Jesus made himself to be the Son of God; Pilate paused and went back to Jesus for further information. Already he had determined that Jesus didn’t deserve to die, but toContinue reading “Moment of Truth”
The Radical Nature of Jesus’ Kingdom
Jesus’ healing of the man with leprosy indicates the radical nature of Jesus’ kingdom breaking into the world’s reality. In the Old Testament those afflicted with leprosy were isolated and forced to stay apart; what is today called “social distancing”. They also were required to declare their uncleanliness lest anyone inadvertently get too close toContinue reading “The Radical Nature of Jesus’ Kingdom”
Addressing Apparent Truths
At times it is logical to form an impression or conclusion about someone that while partially true and based in fact can lead us to an inaccurate and destructive conclusion. A partial truth can be just as deceptive and dangerous as an outright lie. Jesus came to reveal not only outright lies, but partial truthsContinue reading “Addressing Apparent Truths”
David Freitag 