In God’s kingdom.
We have heard what Jesus said comparing God’s ways to man’s ways. Our ways justify hate by thinking it is deserved for one reason or another. God calls it murder. We argue, disrespect, mock and disregard those Jesus calls brothers. Our sense of being superior, cleaver and witty God sees as pride, and our ridicule as painful hurt to the one trusting Jesus to be their Saviour. Jesus told them there is nothing they can do to honor and please God until they first made somethings right. Well, not quite that way but listen.
“You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not murder,’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be answerable to the court.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be answerable to the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be answerable to (the Sanhedrin) the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell. Therefore, if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.” (Matthew 5:21-24 NASB)
What say you?
Do you think we are any different than those who heard Jesus that day? Do His words cease in their meaning because we are the ones saved by God’s grace? No! A million time over, no! God has sent us His Holy Spirit to lead as, we follow Jesus’ teachings about the way things work in His heavenly kingdom.
The Jews came to Him with sacrificial offerings we come to Him with prayer. They were told to make things right. Then they would be welcomed to bring their gifts. Do you suppose we should make things right, as best we can, before asking our Father to do something for us? Please do not say, “God does not care.” Because I am sure that He does.
Some call it a bucket list, my bucket only held one big wish, to visit Israel. God has fulfilled my heart’s desire and so very much more. A picture story called “Moving Along” #4
His Family Table 