Chronological Gospels: Matthew 13; Luke 8
This week in Matthew 13 and Luke 8 we will read through many of Jesus’ parables, as well as some of the miracles He performed. These passages give us several important explanations that will help us understand much of Jesus’ teachings throughout the gospel accounts.
When Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower, the people are confused and the disciples ask Him why He teaches in parables. Jesus explains, both plainly to them in private as well as in further parables, that those who truly seek God’s wisdom with an honest heart and right intentions will receive understanding from God. Those who seek with ill or wrong motives, who hear and see with hardened hearts, closed eyes and ears, will not understand.
It is important for us to soak in this lesson because as people of God we need to check our own hearts and seek God’s help and guidance. We need to be growing in righteousness with the help of the Holy Spirit, and not fall backward and wither up like the seeds sown on rocky, thorny, or bad ground that all get swallowed up. We need to be growing strong roots in Christ every day so that when the storms come, like in Luke 8:22-25, we have strong roots of faith clinging to Jesus, our firm foundation, and not being swept away by worry and panic like the seeds planted in thorns.
What stands out the most to you from the many parables in today’s readings? Why?
As believers, it is vital that we be watchful, and that we listen carefully to all that the Lord has to say and instruct us in. We learn to listen by being in the Word of God regularly, growing strong roots in scripture, and that we do so with an honest heart. One of the biggest lessons we should take away from Jesus’ teachings throughout the gospel is that our intentions make all the difference in the world. If our intentions are not right, we will lack. If our intentions are right, we will be blessed.
Another thing that stands out to me in this week’s reading is that again we see many paths being described and explained, but also yet again we see only one path that leads to salvation. The only way to salvation is through Jesus, through Him sowing the good seeds, growing sturdy roots in Him, and through strong and growing faith in Him.
In what ways have you grown in your faith, and how has this impacted your life?
It is important to stop and remember where we started, where we have been, and where the Lord has taken us so far. Looking back to remember all He has done in and through us and our lives, what we can see, is so helpful to our faith. I constantly stop and remember and thank God for all He has saved me from and all the ways He has helped me to grow and learn along the way. Our readings this week are a perfect reminder to check your heart, evaluate your roots, and reflect on how far you have come with Christ.
Reflect on some of the trials you have been through, and notice from where you are now how God showed up. What are some things you see God was with you in that you maybe didn’t see as much while you were there?
