08 30 Luke 18.35-43 It was blind ambition that led to the desire of Bartimaeus to want to see on that day Jesus was passing by on His way to Jerusalem. He called out for the “Son of David” to have mercy on him. He wanted to see. How Jesus responded indicated that the blindness of his heart could see, but also healed him of physical blindness. We may see, but the spiritual eyes of our heart are still in darkness. Jesus may only be passing by you once. How will you see Him?
08 16 Luke 18.31-34 Jesus gives some important instructions to the disciples that will help them in days to come. The news is about what will happen to Him when they reach Jerusalem. The most important information was about His resurrection. That is important for us today and for all believers because that even ensures our resurrection and eternal life. Are you ready?
08 09 Luke 18.15-30 Our passage reminds us of how important it is to bring children to Jesus. We should do all we can to welcome it and not hinder it. Jesus encouraged children to come to Him because the kingdom of God is made up of those who are like children in their faith. We must come with total trust and dependence on the finished work of Christ and by faith receive that gift. There is nothing we can do to earn eternal life as illustrated in the second section of this passage. A rich ruler came asking Jesus what he must “do” to inherit eternal life. There is nothing we can do but believe. What we need has already been done for us on the cross. Praise the Lord for the finished work of Calvary.
08 02 Luke 18.9-14 Jesus has been talking about the Kingdom of God which is coming soon. He has encouraged prayer for it to come and to pray for courage until it comes because leading up to that day, it will be like the days of Noah and Lot. People will be carrying about business as usual, unconcerned about the impending judgment to come. In our passage today, we find through a parable, Jesus telling us how we can be sure we are a part of God’s kingdom. “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” That’s the only way. Two people are described. Two people offer prayers. Two paths will be followed. There is the religious who think they will get in God’s kingdom but haven’t called on God for His mercy, and there is the repentant, who know that is the only way. Of the two, which are you – religious or repentant?