Matthew 13:47-52
Reflect
Today we land right in the midst of Jesus using many different angles to help His listeners embrace the reality of the Kingdom of Heaven. He has already clarified how immensely valuable the Kingdom is and now continues to reveal another Kingdom dimension. Currently, we have very few discussions regarding what the “end of the age” will be like. One thing notable about this parable is that the evil and the righteous are side by side as the net is being drawn in. On the day of judgment, righteous and evil are gathered together. How apparent was it who were evil and who were righteous? It would seem that the separation will be horrific, as perhaps many who thought they were righteous are not actually known by Jesus (Matt. 7:21-23). Neither biblical knowledge, sincere emotions, or heartfelt service bring us to place of acceptance into the Kingdom of Heaven. Our only hope comes through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. The disciples seem to have matured to a place of understanding the profound teachings of Jesus. Pray that you would reject surrounding yourself only with others that think just like you. Intentionally live amongst others that are very different than you, that your lifestyle would draw them to an authentic faith in Jesus.
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for the Prime Minister, Premier Kenney, Mayor Iveson, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to mind.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth Ministry Pastor.
- Pray for Karen Alksne, our Congregational Life Ministry assistant.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.