August 7

Luke 13:22-30 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

24 "Strive to enter through the narrow door.

Observation

The master says to "strive to enter through the narrow door."

In the parable the owner of the house closes the door once and for all. This causes me to ask a question - why close the door once and for all? I'm curious as to the motivation of the master in this parable. In the next part of the parable the owner distinguishes between two different understandings of knowing someone. The one knocking believes that just because he was physically near and "hung out" with the master that was qualification of knowing him. Yet, the owner seems to make an import distinction between knowing about and being near and actually being in a close relationship with the master.

The master calls these people workers of evil. Those are strong words. Yet, when we do any work (participate in our jobs, families, etc) apart from God (and cooperating with Him) it leads to brokenness (relationships, etc). That said, I can understand the master's thoughts and words. The master seems to be saying that there will be one day where everyone will get there wish. Do I wish to be near and in close relationship with the master? Or, do I wish to live according to my own principles and just know about the master? Because, in the end it looks like we'll get the chance to live out our answer to that decision forever.

Application

I sense that the Spirit is prompting me to share how God's love and His life in me makes a difference. To share with fellow disciples of Jesus how the Spirit of God reminds me and empowers me to forgive, to bless those who irritate me, to admit my mistake. And, to do the same with those who have chosen not to follow Jesus because there will be a day when they will have to live with their choice forever.

Prayer

Spirit of the living God, thank you for coming after me relentlessly with your love. And, thank you for waking me up to the power of your love. Help me to tell the story of your love in my life and my community's life.

--Pastor John Loppnow