Today’s Reading: Mark 11:15-19, 27-33; Luke 13:1-5, 31-35, 19:45-48; John 10:22-42

AT THE TEMPLE

It was in the temple that Jesus taught the people, healed the sick and gave sight to the blind. Many came to believe in him while standing in the temple listening to all he had to say, yet others rejected him.

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Jesus was surrounded by people who were demanding he make it clear right there and right then whether or not he was the Messiah.

Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.” — John 10:25

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that people picked up stones to kill Jesus. When he reminded them of all the good works he had done at his Father’s direction, they replied that they were stoning him because he, a mere man, claimed to be God.

“Why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world. Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work. But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” – John 10:36-38

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Jesus drove out all of the people who were buying and selling animals for sacrifice. They were taking advantage of God’s people and taking the focus of worship away from God. He stood up for the poor and needy; he defended those who had traveled so far. When the religious leaders heard what Jesus had done, they made plans to kill him (Mark 11:15-19).

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that Pilate killed some who had traveled from Galilee to offer sacrifices to God. The place that had been built to restore life had become a place of death (Luke 13:1-5).

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that the religious leaders demanded Jesus prove his authority. Because they were not able to answer his question, he did not answer theirs.

“I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied. “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human? Answer me!” -– Mark 11:29-30

AT THE TEMPLE

It was at the temple that those who were appointed to prepare God’s people for the coming of the Messiah plotted to kill the one they were supposed to be celebrating. Jesus cried out over the devastation that Jerusalem had become and pointed out to them that their temple was no longer a dwelling place for the God they had been called to serve.

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’” – Luke 13:34-36

AT THE TEMPLE

We are God’s temple, the place He chooses to have His Spirit dwell. It is in that temple that God teaches us and prepares us for the life to which He is calling us. It is in that temple that our faith is strengthened and our healing begins.

At times, God does a clearing of all of the ungodly habits and practices we have let creep into our life. At times, we question His character and challenge His motives. But it is also at this temple that God’s sanctifying power begins to take away our sinful desires and replace it with His righteousness. Have you opened the door of the temple to allow God to clean out and remodel your heart?

Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. – 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Today’s Reading: Mark 4:21-25; Luke 8:16-18; John 12:17-19

When all the people heard of Jesus’ arrival, they flocked to see him and also to see Lazarus, the man Jesus had raised from the dead. Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus. – John 12:9-11

LAZARUS’ STORY BROUGHT JESUS GLORY

Lazarus was making a difference in the lives of so many people because he allowed his story to be shared. Jesus had done something miraculous in his life, and he used that miracle to help others understand the difference Jesus could make in their lives. He had been dead, but he was now alive because of Jesus!

What Jesus had done for Lazarus became his story, but it did not stay Lazarus’ story. His healing was about Jesus; it was HIS story. It was meant to be used for Jesus’ glory, so that others could see the power of the Messiah.

Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. That was the reason so many went out to meet him – because they had heard about this miraculous sign. Then the Pharisees said to each other, “There’s nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him!” – John 12:17-19

HIS STORY FOR JESUS’ GLORY

Many came to faith because Lazarus allowed his story to be told. He did not hide from the impact Jesus had made in his life, nor did he claim any of that glory for himself. He became a light in a very dark place and many gained understanding of who Jesus was because of the story of Lazarus’ healing.

Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”

Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given — and you will receive even more. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.” – Mark 4:21-25

Let’s not forget that death came before the healing; grief came before the peace. The story of Lazarus was not just about the joy of death resurrected; his story began from a place of pain and tears. As he was sick and dying, he might have wondered where Jesus was. When he was told that his friends had gone to bring Jesus back, he might have questioned what was taking Jesus so long. As he felt his life fading away, he must have felt a lot like we do when we cannot see the answer to our prayers. Later, when the leading priests began to plot his death, Lazarus must have felt a lot like we do when we are bullied or criticized for our faith.

Will you allow God to have the rest of your story? Will you allow Him to be glorified through both the pain and the triumph? Even if He chooses to be glorified through your death instead of through your healing, do you trust Him? Even if God uses the story of the persecution you experienced because of your faith, rather than of the favor you received on earth, will you trust Him?

MY STORY FOR JESUS’ GLORY

But when Jesus heard about it he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” – John 11:4

That is the desire of my heart this morning – for God to be glorified through the circumstances of my life. I want it to be said that I trusted God in both sickness and health, in both disappointment and victory. I want everything God does in my life to be more than just my story, but to be for Jesus’ glory.

Today’s Reading: Today’s Reading: Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-16

The town of Bethany was on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, while Jerusalem was on the western side. So as Jesus was leaving Bethany to head to Jerusalem for the week of Passover, crowds began to form. Word was spreading that Jesus was back and lots of people were coming out to give him the triumphant welcome he deserved.

As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.”

This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said,
“Tell the people of Jerusalem,
‘Look, your King is coming to you.
He is humble, riding on a donkey – riding on a donkey’s colt.’” – Matthew 21:1-5

NOT FOR THEIR PURPOSES BUT FOR JESUS’ GLORY

The only thing the owners had to hear was that the Lord needed what they had, and their response was to IMMEDIATELY let the disciples take them. They did not get possessive with what they owned or concerned whether they would ever see the animals again. They did not focus on the value of what was theirs, but they shared with Jesus without questioning what he had planned. The donkey and its colt were no longer needed for their purposes as much as they were needed for Jesus’ glory. I like to believe that the owners were in the crowd of people that day to experience this moment.

Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it, and he sat on it. Many in the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others spread leafy branches they had cut in the fields. Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting.

“Praise God!
Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Blessings on the coming Kingdom of our ancestor David!
Praise God in highest heaven!” – Mark 11:7-10

What an incredible moment in history. Prophecy was being fulfilled and Jesus was receiving glory for all God was doing through him. But the reality was that not all of Jerusalem was ready to receive the Messiah. As Jesus came closer to Jerusalem, he began to weep over the condition of Jerusalem. He had come that all would experience life but he knew what was ahead. He knew this city would not accept their opportunity for salvation (Luke 19:41-44).

Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves. He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” – Matthew 21:12-13

DENYING GOD THE GLORY

The Temple was built to give God’s people a place to worship Him. It was to be a building where God was glorified, but the people had lost their focus. The building was now more about ritual instead of relationship; about profit instead of the Great Prophet. Jesus’ time on earth was drawing close to an end and the people were still so focused on themselves that they were missing the presence of the Messiah. Jesus’ words to the people that day held great purpose:

“Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.” – John 12:23-26

That is the desire of my heart this morning – to follow Jesus, to be where He is. I want everything God does in my life to be more than just my story, but to be for Jesus’ glory. I want my possessions to be available for His use and for His glory. I want to be in the crowd welcoming Jesus with garments and palm branches, instead of missing the moment because I am too caught up in the chaos of the Temple. I do not want Jesus to weep when he considers my future, but to be pleased with the plentiful harvest of his power at work in my life. Oh Jesus, this is my prayer!

Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness. – Psalm 115:1

Today’s Reading: Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-11

PEOPLE RESPONDED TO JESUS IN DIFFERENT WAYS.

Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus – the man he had raised from the dead. A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” Not that he cared for the poor – he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself. – John 12:1-6

The Passover was only six days away and I am sure there was much that needed to be done for this annual celebration, yet Lazarus and his sisters put aside their preparations in order to throw a dinner party in Jesus’ honor. What a year it had been for them! They recognized how different this Passover celebration would have been if Jesus had not intervened and raised Lazarus from the dead. God had blessed them greatly and they refused to forget His generosity. Instead, they chose to be generous in return.

MARTHA’S RESPONSE WAS TO SERVE.

Martha was doing what she does best – serving. It was her love language. Lazarus was soaking in the presence of Jesus, thankful for the opportunity to share a meal together in brotherly fellowship and giving Jesus the gift of his time, recognizing that every minute of his life was a gift from Jesus.

Martha and Lazarus remind me of my mother-in-law, Bonnie Sherwood. Three times she has been diagnosed with cancer and today she is cancer-free. She knows that every day is a gift from God and so she lives out her love language of serving God by serving others, soaking in every opportunity to worship in Jesus’ presence.

MARY’S RESPONSE WAS TO GIVE SACRIFICIALLY.

Mary’s response to Jesus was beautiful in its own way, perhaps describing her love language – sacrifice. There was nothing too expensive for Jesus, nothing she was unwilling to do in order to express her devotion to the Savior. The house was filled with the fragrance. Mary’s gift and her worship had an impact on everyone in her vicinity. When we give our best to God, when we serve and worship Him with reckless abandon, all those around us are impacted by our gift.

JUDAS’ RESPONSE WAS ONE OF SELFISHNESS AND GREED.

Judas was thinking only of himself. His concern was first for his own experience, disregarding the heart of Jesus and the needs of others. He had an attitude of possessiveness and entitlement.

Sadly, these various responses can be seen today among the body of Christ. Consider these examples and ask God to reveal your heart.

The church announces a work day. Martha signs up to help, Mary offers to buy the cleaning supplies and Judas says, “I was at the last work day. It is someone else’s turn to clean.”

A teenager who is rough around the edges, struggling with some addictions and coming from an unchurched family walks in the door. Martha offers him a ride to all future youth group events, Mary offers to pay his way to camp and Judas complains that there are cigarette butts in the church parking lot.

The state posts the abortion statistics for the local community and the lives of 350 babies are reflected in last year’s numbers. Martha volunteers her time and Mary writes a check to the local pregnancy center, while Judas looks the other way and complains if the church brings up the topic of abortion – after all, it makes everyone uncomfortable.

A man walks out on his wife and kids, filing for divorce. Martha volunteers to babysit, Mary brings over a week’s worth of groceries, and Judas says, “There’s always two sides to every story – I’m sure she shares some of the fault in their marriage going bad. Pastor, you need to find someone else to teach her Sunday School class.”

WHAT WILL MY RESPONSE BE?

Heavenly Father, reveal to me any “Judas” traits I might have. Forgive me for the times when I have put my own desires ahead of the needs of others, or the times when I have been too busy to honor you. Forgive me for the times when I have judged others instead of showing love. Help me to always see how different my life would be without your intervention and healing.

Lord Jesus, may I never forget your generosity but always be generous towards you. May the fragrance of my devotion to you be a blessing to all those in the house. Grow the “Martha” and “Mary” in me so that my first response is service and generosity. Like Lazarus, thank you for allowing me to experience your presence this morning as I drink my morning coffee.

Today’s Reading: John 10:22-42, 11:45-57

It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” – John 10:22-24

THEY DEMANDED THAT JESUS EXPLAIN HIMSELF.

But Jesus had already told them who he was over and over again. They had been given the opportunity to believe that Jesus was the promised Messiah, but their hearts were closed to the idea that Jesus from Nazareth was the Son of God.

Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name. But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” – John 10:25-30

THEY PICKED UP STONES TO KILL HIM.

This was their opportunity. They believed Jesus had committed blasphemy, giving them the right to publicly stone him. They were postured for victory when Jesus pointed out to them all of the good work he had been doing at the direction of his Father. His miracles were proof of the divine authority he had been given, yet they refused to see Jesus as anything but a mere man claiming to be God.

Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work. But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” – John 10:37-38

THEY TRIED TO ARREST HIM, BUT JESUS SLIPPED AWAY.

He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile. And many followed him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, “but everything he said about this man has come true.” And many who were there believed in Jesus. – John 10:40-42

They were his sheep and they recognized him as their wonderful shepherd. They listened to his voice. They were known by Jesus and willing to follow him. He was willing to sacrifice his life so that they could experience an eternity with him. But others continued to plot against him, looking for an opportunity to silence the voice of Jesus.

Then the leading priests and Pharisees called the high council together. “What are we going to do?” they asked each other. “This man certainly performs many miraculous signs. If we allow him to go on like this, soon everyone will believe in him. Then the Roman army will come and destroy both our Temple and our nation.”

Caiaphas, who was high priest at that time, said, “You don’t know what you’re talking about! You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.”

He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation. And not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world. – John 11:47-52

THEY PLOTTED TO KILL JESUS.

As we approach Good Friday, let us have ears to hear the voice of Jesus. Lord, open our hearts to what you would like to reveal to us as we prepare for our celebration of your resurrection. We are your sheep and we recognize that you are our good, good Shepherd. These scriptures remind us of how unjustly you were treated. You came to do good and those who should have been the first to recognize you instead plotted against you. And yet you offered them salvation. Father God, may our hearts never be the same as we read through the story of your love, your mercy, and your grace. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Mark 10:35-45; Psalm 56

As we look over the gospel accounts, we see moments when Jesus spoke clearly to the disciples about what was coming. They heard him, yet they did not fully understand. They knew something was about to happen that would forever change them. They could feel both the anticipation and the fear of what was to come, but they were confused. God’s larger plan was unfolding and they were struggling to understand. Can you relate to how they were feeling?

SOMETIMES WE CONTINUE MOVING FORWARD REGARDLESS OF THE CONFUSION, FEAR AND ANTICIPATION.

“Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans. They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again.” – Mark 10:33-34

“…Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?…” – Mark 10:38b

“…For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of light.” – John 12:35-36a

There have been many times in my life when I was able to look back and see the evidence of how God had been preparing me for my current situation. I did not understand at the time, but later God increased my understanding. Looking back, I can see how various experiences in my life were shaping me into the person I needed to be for God’s plan. I can look back and see how God was revealing, little by little, things I needed to learn for a future purpose.

Because I can look back on yesterday, as the disciples did,
and understand NOW what God was teaching me THEN,
I can trust Him with my TODAY
knowing that God has a plan for my TOMORROW.

So as I face persecution for my faith, I am reminded of how God has helped me through similar seasons of bullying. As I am threatened and falsely accused, I stand boldly in faith that God is on my side! I could trust Him yesterday, so I will trust Him today, knowing He has my tomorrows safely in His care.

O God, have mercy on me,
for people are hounding me.
My foes attack me all day long.
I am constantly hounded by those who slander me,
and many are boldly attacking me.
But when I am afraid,
I will put my trust in you.
I praise God for what he has promised.
I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
What can mere mortals do to me?
They are always twisting what I say;
they spend their days plotting to harm me.
They come together to spy on me—
watching my every step, eager to kill me.
Don’t let them get away with their wickedness;
in your anger, O God, bring them down.
You keep track of all my sorrows.
You have collected all my tears in your bottle.
You have recorded each one in your book.
My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help.
This I know: God is on my side!
I praise God for what he has promised;
yes, I praise the Lord for what he has promised.
I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
What can mere mortals do to me?
I will fulfill my vows to you, O God,
and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help.
For you have rescued me from death;
you have kept my feet from slipping.
So now I can walk in your presence, O God,
in your life-giving light. – Psalm 56

Today’s Reading: Mark 10:32-34; Luke 18:31-34

Because I can look back on yesterday,
and understand NOW what God was teaching me THEN,
I can trust Him with my TODAY
knowing that God has a plan for my TOMORROW.

Let’s face it, sometimes today just does not make sense. Sometimes it’s impossible for us to wrap our minds around what is happening in this life. We turn to God for understanding, hoping He will bring order to the chaos and answers to our questions. Many times we have to wait patiently for God to give us perspective. It does not make sense today, but perhaps it will tomorrow.

In the same way, the disciples did not fully understand everything Jesus was teaching them until after his death and resurrection. Early on in his ministry, Jesus began talking about his death. The disciples were slow to understand that Jesus was preparing them, little by little, for what was ahead. As time went on, he would give them a little more information about the suffering that was coming.

Then Jesus began to tell them that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead. – Mark 8:31

As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him. “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.” – Matthew 20:17-19

Jesus replied, “Do wedding guests fast while celebrating with the groom? Of course not. They can’t fast while the groom is with them. But someday the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. – Mark 2:19-20

Consider again what Jesus said to Peter, James and John after the Transfiguration on the mountain.

Then a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, when they looked around, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus with them. As they went back down the mountain, he told them not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept it to themselves, but they often asked each other what he meant by “rising from the dead.” – Mark 9:7-10

God could have opened up the minds of the disciples and helped them to understand how Scripture was being fulfilled. Jesus could have had a lengthy conversation with His followers, clearly revealing His role and what was about to take place.

SOMETIMES GOD REVEALS HIS PLAN A LITTLE AT A TIME.

“The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. He will be killed, but three days later he will rise from the dead.” They didn’t understand what he was saying, however, and they were afraid to ask him what he meant. – Mark 9:31b-32

They were now on the way up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were filled with awe, and the people following behind were overwhelmed with fear. – Mark 10:32a

They did not understand what was about to happen, yet they could feel the enormity of what was coming. They had the choice to walk away, yet they continued to follow Jesus. Their love for Jesus and their faith in their Lord was enough to keep them moving forward, regardless of their fear or anticipation of the unknown.

Perhaps that describes you. You do not fully understand how God’s plan fits in the middle of your situation but you love Him enough to keep moving forward. You struggle to grasp what is happening but you choose to follow Jesus anyhow. The weight of your circumstances is overwhelming but your faith keeps you hoping — regardless of the fear or anticipation of the unknown. My prayer this morning is that God will give you the strength you need, and that He will reveal Himself to you in the middle of your reality. I pray your experience of him yesterday will help you to trust Him with everything that does not make sense today. And may Jesus show up in a very real way for you today.

Today’s Reading: Matthew 20:1-16; Luke 19:1-10

PEOPLE IN THE MARKETPLACE

There once was a landowner who hired workers for his vineyard, agreeing to pay them a normal daily wage. A few hours later, he saw some people standing in the marketplace with nothing to do – no purpose, no plans. He hired them to also work in his vineyard. At noon and then again at 3pm and 5pm, the landowner hired more people from the marketplace, sending them to work in his vineyards.

At the end of the day, the foreman paid the last workers first, giving them each a full day’s wage. When those hired early in the morning came through the line, they also received a full day’s wage. Can you imagine their shock? “Those people worked only one hour, and yet you’ve paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat.”

The landowner responded, “Friends, I haven’t been unfair! Didn’t you agree to work all day for the usual wage? Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you. Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?”

Jesus took this opportunity to make a strong statement to all those listening: “So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last” (Matthew 20:1-16).

Jesus knows our humanity enough to know that we battle selfishness and jealousy. We are quick to respond to injustice and cry out, “It’s not fair!” In this parable, the injustice is that those who spend the majority of their life producing fruit for the Master could end up with the same reward as those who surrender to the Lord late in life. Our tendency is to focus on how the prodigals have spent a great deal of their life not following Jesus; we see the scars of their sins instead of the scars of our Savior. Jesus died to transform the lives of the lost and he can do the same for our selfish hearts.

PEOPLE IN THE TREETOPS

Or perhaps we get so caught up in working for God that we no longer see those standing in the marketplace who have no purpose, no plan. We pass them by in a hurry to get to the vineyard. We no longer look up in the treetops to see who is curious about God from a distance; we miss the opportunity to open the door for those who do not feel worthy of walking into our fellowship because of their sins.

Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. – Luke 19:1-2

Although Zacchaeus was a Jew, he worked for Rome collecting taxes from other Jews. The only way a tax collector would gain wealth in this job was to charge the Jews a great deal more than he was required to give to Rome. He was seen as dishonest and disloyal; he was considered a traitor and a cheat.

He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.

When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”

Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.

Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”

Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this house today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” – Luke 19:3-10

How often do we walk around the “trees” because we despise the sins of others?
How often do we ignore the “trees” and those who are curious about Jesus?
How often do we give up on others, assuming they are too steeped in sin to repent?

PEOPLE AT THE TABLE

The Jewish people saw Zacchaeus as wicked but Jesus saw who Zacchaeus was created to be. We need to see people as Jesus does. Let’s start looking for people in trees and invite them to the table. Let’s take notice of those standing in the marketplace and invite them to come work in the vineyard. This is not an-invitation-only country club. All are welcome, for the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.

Lord, give us a burden for the lost that changes the way we see those around us today. Give us EYES TO SEE and HEARTS TO NOTICE the need of salvation in those we come in contact with each day. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Mark 10:46-52 and 11:12-14,20-25; Luke 18:35-43

Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” – Mark 10:46-47

Can you hear the passion in his voice? Can you hear the desperation and the desire to be healed? This man was not just asking for mercy, he was pleading for help. He was not calling out to a simple prophet, Bartimaeus recognized that Jesus was the promised Messiah, the Son of David, their Lord.

Pray with passion…

“Be quiet!” many of the people yelled at him.
But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, “Tell him to come here.”
So they called the blind man. “Cheer up,” they said. “Come on, he’s calling you!” Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. – Mark 10:48-50

Jesus had invited him to come closer and Bartimaeus responded immediately. I love how he threw off his coat and jumped to his feet. His eagerness to be healed by Jesus was obvious to all those around them. Jesus had called him and he was responding wholeheartedly.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked.
“My Rabbi,” the blind man said, “I want to see!” – Mark 10:51

Jesus gave Bartimaeus the opportunity to say specifically what he wanted Jesus to do for him. He knew the desire of his heart and the physical need was obvious, but Jesus allowed the opportunity to define what he wanted the Lord to do and why. It was in this moment that the crowd saw the faith of a man who desired nothing more than to see the face of Jesus.

Pray specifically. What are you asking Jesus to do for you today?

And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road. – Mark 10:52

The man’s eyesight had been restored. His world was now open to new experiences and a new understanding of his surroundings. But instead of being focused on what he had gained, the desire of his heart was to follow Jesus — to watch Jesus at work in the lives of others.

The next morning as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. He noticed a fig tree in full leaf a little way off, so he went over to see if he could find any figs. But there were only leaves because it was too early in the season for fruit. Then Jesus said to the tree, “May no one ever eat your fruit again!” And the disciples heard him say it. – Mark 11:12-14

The next morning as they passed by the fig tree he had cursed, the disciples noticed it had withered from the roots up. – Mark 11:20

Pray confidently, knowing what Jesus is capable of accomplishing…

Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” – Mark 11:22-25

Perhaps these words of Jesus are hard to receive because you have not experienced the answer your heart desires when you pray. I have definitely been there. This reminder is good for me to hear. Perhaps there are some healing conversations that need to take place. Perhaps I need to let go of ways in which others have sinned against me before I am ready to bring my requests before God. Perhaps I need to throw aside the coat I have been wearing and jump up unburdened as I go see Jesus. Today I pray that God gives me the faith to…

Pray with passion.
Pray specifically.
Pray from a DOUBTLESS FAITH.
Pray with CONFIDENT BOLDNESS.
Pray with HUMBLE EXPECTATION.
Pray with SHAMELESS PERSISTENCE.

Today is the day to make my requests known to God with a clear heart and a big faith! May the God who loves to give good gifts to His children hear our prayers today, and may He respond according to His perfect plan.

Today’s Reading: Matthew 20:20-28; Mark 11:22-25

Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” – Mark 11:22-25

What is heavy on your heart? What are you praying for right now? What do you need to see God do? Who do you need to forgive in order to receive the forgiveness of God? This morning’s study on prayer continues where we left off yesterday.

Jesus taught us to pray – to bring our requests to God.
Jesus taught us how to pray – with SHAMELESS PERSISTENCE.
Jesus taught us to pray from a place of hope — with HUMBLE EXPECTATION.
Jesus taught us to pray from a place of faith — with CONFIDENT BOLDNESS.

Pray boldly…

Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. “What is your request?” he asked.

She replied, “In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”

But Jesus answered by saying to them, “You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink?”

“Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!” – Matthew 20:20-22

What is your reaction to this confident boldness displayed by James and John? Our first reaction is to judge their request, but their heart’s desire is revealed in Jesus’ question for them and their eager response to that question. Jesus, if you are going to be arrested, let them arrest me too. Jesus, if you are going to suffer, let me suffer alongside you. They were willing to suffer for Christ and they longed to be as close to Jesus as possible, in life and in death.

Pray sacrificially…

Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or on my left. My father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”

When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:23-28

We learn from Matthew 20 that God wants us to pray with a confident boldness that comes from a heart of faith — a heart that is willing to suffer for Christ and a heart that is humbly prepared to serve others.

Pray from a heart willing to serve…

When we are confidently bringing our requests to God, it is worth examining our hearts. What place do our prayers come from; what intentions motivate our words? Are we praying from the heart of a sacrificial servant? At times it is incredibly difficult to pray from a place of submission, praying as Jesus taught us — may your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Lord, give us the confidence to pray with boldness and give us the strength to bow our will to yours. Lord, hear us when we pray today. We beg you to consider our requests and see the desires of our heart.