A Change In Perspective Matthew 13:1-23

Life has been strange for me since coming back to California. I had to say good bye to by father, in case I don’t see him again before Jesus takes him home, and now I am trying to get back into my routine. As much as I am trying to get to life as “normal” I can’t help but see things differently. Life is short and there are people in my path who need to know Jesus.

I got my hair cut the other day and the sweet young girl who cuts my hair needs to know Jesus. I was telling her about my dad, and though she was sincerely interested when I told her all the amazing things God was doing for my family, the look on her face was priceless. She didn’t get it. I think she believed me when I told her how God was with my family, giving us the strength, but I could tell she couldn’t relate.

Today’s passage talks about those who hear the word of God but don’t get it. Jesus explains that, “Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.” Others lack of understanding does not mean we stop explaining the things of heaven to them, it just means we need to be covered in prayer when we do.

The Holy Spirit is at work in the lives of those we come in contact with and we need to be praying that the Holy Spirit is preparing the individual to hear the good news we have to share. The reality is, life is short and Hell is real, so we need to make sure God is the one directing our words when we tell others about him, so that their ears are open.

Read today's passage at Biblegateway Matthew 13:1-23

Peter Experiences the Transfiguration -- Mark 9:2-13

I remember reading a classic in High School called, Great Expectations. Our class spent weeks pouring over this story and tearing it apart, analyzing the work in an attempt to identify what made this writing so unique and special. I felt the same anticipation reading the scripture about the Transfiguration.

I am sure the phrase "Mountain Top Experience" refers to the experience Peter, James and John had when Jesus brought them with Him up a mountain for some alone time. Don't you find it interesting to note Jesus wanted to share this adventure with only these close friends, His inner circle? I know Jesus doesn't play favorites, but He does know the big picture and acts accordingly.

So much is going on in this scene. First the four of them are all alone. Then they are joined by Elijah and Moses. Then the cloud appeared, (it was a bright sunny cloudless day), enveloped them and a voice spoke, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!” (Mark 9:7). Just as suddenly, they were alone again.

Whew – makes me dizzy just imagining how the three disciples felt. Listen to Him jumped off the page for me.  What is it about this text that grabs your attention?  Which line is your 'take-away' today?

To read all the text for today go to Biblegateway and Mark 9. To return to this posting hit the back arrow.

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