July 3

Luke 7:18-35 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

When John's messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in kings' courts. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.

Observation

Very often, Jesus characterized the crowd as blind men, people who do not see well to guide their steps. And yet, people were drawn to see Jesus, John the Baptist and the prophets, perhaps for the wrong reasons. God is not a wish fulfiller who grants us the desires of whatever is in our hearts, doing the expected. Time and time again, he surpries, confounds and is always doing something new, challenging us to see the core and not be satisfied with the expected superficial things. The Pharisees were offended that he routinely broke their laws and expectations to open his arms to the untouchables of society. The crowds gathered to hear his teaching but often were misled to expect a triumphant king to free them from the grip of Rome. Our hearts, left to itheir devices, mislead us often.

Application

Spending time with the Master is the only way to avoid being misled by my own heart. Reading the scriptures that he loves to interpret and teach. Communicating with him the baggae of my own ways of thinking so that I can be properly led by his fresh thinking and direction. Quantity and quality of time spent in prayer, reading and reflection are really the keys, as the disciples of Jesus found out, through their years of walking with him.

Prayer

Help me Lord to walk closer with you so that I will not fill myself with ungodly expectations and thinking.

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