Tag: leader

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Luke: Consistent, Faithful Service

Read: Luke 12:35-48

A beatitude, a warning, and a parable. Three sections carefully designed to emphasize the call to consistent, faithful service. Beware! The narrative comes with warnings of judgment and dire consequences for disobedience. The warning is clear and the parable is often used to convict those in vocational service within the church, but don’t miss the incredible reward that Jesus provides to in the beatitude.

Beatitude: Luke 12:35-38

Once again, Jesus uses the imagery of a wedding banquet which lasted some five to seven days. In other words, you don’t know when the master is going to return. For those who are prepared in spite of the extended absence, Jesus tells of a wonderful reward:

Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. Luke 12:37

What a joy it is for the Lord of lords to find us so prepared when He returns that He serves us! This is crazy talk, right? The blessing here, the beatitude, is simply this: Blessed is the one who is always prepared to greet the Lord.

Warning: Luke 12:39-40

The story prompts us to be prepared, so Jesus wants to ensure we’re clear that this is more than just a good thing, this is a requirement that comes with a warning.

You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Luke 12:40

Peter asks for clarification in verse 41. It’s humorous how Jesus answers his rather innocent, Peter-esque question — well, He doesn’t. Instead, Jesus tells a story. The NIV Application Commentary explains: “his main principle is the kind of service we give, not sorting out who is responsible to give it…all have a call to serve others in the body…to be a member of his community is to have responsibility in it; this is especially true of the leadership.”*

Parable of Accountability: Luke 12:42-48

Whether you read this as pointing directly to the church, your workplace, or your home, the lesson is all about personal accountability. For those who abuse their position of authority, who see an opportunity to exploit others while the master is away for an extended time, the punishment is extreme:

He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers. Luke 12:46

Those who know better will be severely disciplined. Such hyperbole is meant to get our attention. Please notice that it is the master that judges, not the people who were mistreated. This is an important distinction to me.

The section ends with a verse that my parents poured into me in, not only in words, it’s how they lived their lives:

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48

The way mom and dad put it:

To whom much is given, much is required.Mom and Dad

Why are we given gifts, both spiritual and physical? Why would the Lord shower us with blessings, both talents and abilities? I’m sure He wants to demonstrate His unfailing love, no doubt, but I’m also sure that He wants us to show the same love to our neighbors, to the least, the lost, and the lonely. Most of the time this probably looks like consistent, faithful service–nothing special.

I hope we are consistently prepared for the Lord’s return. I pray that we will lean on each other when we are not, that we would spur each other on with the best of intentions. Above all, that we would do these things in love for the world to see how beautiful You are and join in the banquet with us.

*Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland , David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 51211-51213). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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Luke: What Defines You?

Read: Luke 12:1-12

Thousands of people began to gather as Jesus’ preaching continues to attract the masses. His first concern for His disciples is to warn them about the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, hypocrisy–all will be revealed. But this seems trivial compared to this statement:

But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Luke 12:5

Jesus is adamant, God is Holy and just. He is the ultimate authority. This is not so popular in today’s society, but it’s just as true today as it was when He was speaking to the crowds.

This is great news for followers of Jesus and a horrible revelation for those who refuse to listen to this message. To drive the point even further, Jesus teaches that we can talk bad about Him, but shutting down the Holy Spirit has eternal, extreme consequences:

And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Luke 12:10

Those who refuse to accept Christ time after time after time are guilty of this ultimate sin and the just judge will pronounce the sentence when all is revealed.

Tough words on Friday, yes? I’m in no way feeling righteous, not even close! If anything, I’m convicted more today than ever before and I’m praying that I will be stirred to action.

From the NIV Application Commentary this morning, one of the authors recalled his college days in Young Life when they often asked this question:

If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be evidence to convict you?

I wonder what would happen if we put that in the bulletin on Sunday? I’m not trying to encourage a legalistic, checklist-based faith, but would my actions today convince anyone that I’m guilty of being a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ?

If it’s true that nothing will be hidden (Luke 12:3), the preponderance of evidence should easily convince the most unbiased jury that I am guilty! In the trial process, the evidence sought by the accuser would not focus on what I did not do, think, or say, rather, they would focus on things I did. Now I’m feeling a bit concerned, even defensive. Thankfully, Jesus already knows this is going to be our response and gives us this affirmation:

Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:7

The ultimate defense attorney for those who follow Christ and who come under scrutiny as a result: The Holy Spirit. He will tell us what to say, and when, and how.

Go out and be the testimony of Christ with confidence. You are aligned with the Creator and commissioned to spread the gospel with His backing. May your trial be an open and shut case! And may Jesus be known more as a result.

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Luke: Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders

Read: Luke 11:37-54

Invited to dinner with the Pharisees, Jesus is quick to point out their deficiencies as a group. The way Luke records this is fascinating. He sits down, doesn’t wash ceremoniously to get their attention, then proceeds to tell them they are fools!

Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. You foolish people! Luke 11:39-40

Two chapters ago, before the Transfiguration, Jesus was telling His disciples, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law…” (Luke 9:22), the very people who invited Him to dinner — now He’s openly criticizing them!

Before digging into the “woes” that follow, I find it quite interesting that these guys don’t storm out of the room. It seems to me that they’re so confident in their position that they stand their ground to teach Jesus a lesson or two. Their proud posture will ultimately be their downfall. Something I need to be reminded of when I take a stance for or against the church. Jesus is the truth, not Dave, not the scribes, not the Pharisees.

Another general observation is that Jesus makes His position known openly, He doesn’t speak to the Pharisees one way in front of them and another to His disciples. The Pharisees (and others) are often seen whispering among themselves, plotting in secret, and acting deceptively. Jesus has nothing to do with such behavior and calls out these actions frequently. Important lessons to learn when having crucial conversations — integrity is of utmost importance.

We must NOT engage in religious hypocrisy. That sounds intuitively obvious, but when, not if, we only surround ourselves with people that agree with our own perspectives, we risk becoming hypocrites by association. For this reason, among many others, we must get out from behind the walls of the church building and befriend those who are far from Christ where our pious positions are not so revered and honored.

The Woes of Legalism

  • you neglect justice and the love of God
  • you love the most important seats…and respectful greetings in the marketplaces
  • you are like unmarked graves
  • you load people down with burdens
  • you build tombs for the prophets… from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah…this generation will be held responsible for it all
  • you have taken away the key to knowledge

Jesus didn’t just criticize randomly, He provides specific issues for them to consider, perhaps for us to consider. The words here are laced with pride, especially pride in their legalistic system with which few can pass tests and therefore enter the elitist community.

May we surround ourselves with people of integrity that question our motivation and decisions. Keep me far from “yes-men” that make me feel good about myself for the sake of feeling good. At the same time, I’m not suggesting that being obstinate is not a badge of honor. Let’s just simply be people of integrity.

Luke was inspired to provide these specific words for us to consider. Lord, I pray we would not neglect justice for the least of these, that we would love You above all else. I pray we lay down our prideful nature and selfish ambition to make You accessible to all people, especially those who have not properly heard the gospel. Help us to be keys to knowledge, not barriers!

 

Footnote of Interest from the NIVAC:

The Pharisees and scribes were not the majority on the ruling council of Judaism (the Sadducees were), but they did have great influence there. While the Sadducees basically followed the Torah (Genesis to Deuteronomy), the Pharisees developed an extensive tradition of oral law, applying it to every area of life; this factor made them the strictest of the Jewish religious sects. Though small in number (estimated to be over 6,000 at this time), as a lay movement they represented one of the more powerful influences on Judaism. 2 The scribes were scholars who tried to determine what following the law meant. They were respected by most Jews.

Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland , David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 50699-50704). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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Luke: A House Divided Cannot Stand

Read: Luke 11:14-23

We’re getting deeper and deeper into challenging concepts from Jesus that confused the original Jewish leadership while making modern theologians search for answers. In this case, Jesus is casting out a demon and fields objections by those in the crowd:

But some of them said, “By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he is driving out demons.” Luke 11:15

The first argument provided by Jesus is straight-forward: why would Satan go about driving out his own demons? The logic is impossible to refute. I suspect there were lots of heads nodding in agreement as the “aha” moment sinks in.

But Jesus isn’t done yet. Since He has their attention He continues to explain that while it’s obviously not Satan, or Beelzebul, it must be from somewhere else. Here is both a challenge along with an answer. Verse 19 asks a penetrating question: “Whom do your followers drive out demons?” The direct implication puts them on the spot. Do they try to drive out demons? Crickets.

But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Luke 11:20

The phrase, “kingdom of God has come upon you” is critical. The way I read this Jesus is telling the people gathered at that time this significant truth, which of course applies today just as well: here, right in front of your eyes, you are seeing God’s work.

You’ve seen it, now you must make a decision. Jesus makes it clear:

Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Luke 11:23

Either in or out, there is no in between.

We are constantly confronted with the notion that there are lots of ways to God; many religions, but all the same God. Many have adopted this perspective, but Jesus is clear, there is only one way to the Father. It’s not about being a snob, it’s simply about understanding the truth.

Lord, we are with you! Help us to see how to gather with you today!

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Luke: Samaritan Opposition

Read: Luke 9:51-56

Luke is already beginning to point to Jesus’ resurrection, though it’s a bit early in the narrative, as His ministry spreads. It’s interesting that Jesus doesn’t hesitate to not only go through Samaria, but made plans to stay in the area much despised by the Jewish leadership.

The messengers sent to prepare a place are rejected, so the disciples have a suggestion:

When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” Luke 9:54

Two of the inner circle have an idea: Blast ‘Em! (thus the featured image).

But Jesus turned and rebuked them. Then he and his disciples went to another village. Luke 9:55-56

The positional authority that Jesus has over His disciples is truly amazing. They have so much respect for Him, yet they have so much to learn. Jesus picked these guys to ignite the flame of Christianity for the world. I’d like to take time to catalog all the episodes where Jesus has to rebuke His chosen few, something for another day.

The lesson here is seen in many places in the Bible. Hardened hearts will not be turned by forcing the issue. Dust off your sandals and press on. There are those who will listen and those who will not. Let’s focus on those who are truly seeking the kingdom and pray for the Spirit to soften hearts.

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Luke: Your faith has saved you; go in peace

Read: Luke 7:36-50

Today, we get to revisit Mark: Jesus Anointed at Bethany from a different perspective and at a different time. This is not during passion week, not just before Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice, so it seems this is a separate event that ends with a different emphasis near the beginning of Jesus’ traveling ministry.

The passage we read in Luke ends with, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” For some reason, I’m stuck on that sentence. It seems likely that Luke places this story here quite intentionally, though different from Matthew, Mark, and John — all recall this scene as Jesus foresaw. After examples of a centurion’s faith, the widow’s son, and John the Baptist, we are taken to a Pharisee’s home to witness a sinful woman’s faith. How incredible!

Simon the Pharisee

Jesus demonstrates the width of His ministry in this story by accepting an invitation to dinner with a Pharisee. That alone is interesting and revealing. We don’t know if Simon was looking for some insider information or if he was starting to lean toward Jesus’ teaching, though the former seems likely. In any case, Jesus shows up. Lord, help me to just show up in the right place at the right time!

The NIV Application Commentary adds a bit of backstory for consideration. In those days, when a public figure was invited to dinner, the front door of the house remained open to allow the public to hear what was said–it was an event, not a private affair. The woman in the story takes advantage of the opportunity, but steps across the line to wipe Jesus’ feet with her hair. Simon kept his distance as he considers the offensive event:

When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Luke 7:39

I have to be honest, I love when people are talking to themselves, thinking Jesus has no clue, then He turns to them and addresses their concern as if they spoke out loud. I can imagine Simon took a step back when Jesus looked at him and offered a parable to help him understand. He wisely responds, “tell me…”

The Parable

Two people are forgiven their debts: both quite a lot, but one ten times as much. Jesus asks Simon a simple question:

Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Luke 7:42

It’s interesting to try and quantify the amount of love offered to the one who forgave the debt, but Simon gets the point, so I don’t think dwelling on the thought of loving more is appropriate, just something to let sink in a bit.

Yes, Jesus, the one who was forgiven more. Simon wins the Sunday School prize.

Simon’s Rebuke

Simon didn’t expect Jesus to tie the story to the offensive woman. Jesus points out that Simon didn’t greet Him with a customary kiss, nor did he wash His feet or offer perfume for His head. Instead, this notoriously sinful woman performs this incredible service.

Sins Forgiven

Here’s the crux of the story: because she showed such deep faith, Jesus forgave her sins. This is a mic-drop moment during dinner. The other Pharisees heard that, if nothing else, and are now in a tizzy.

The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Luke 7:49

It’s funny that they’re talking amongst themselves when Jesus is standing right there. Cowards! Ask the question! Nope. I suspect this is a sub-theme that Luke chose to weave into his writing, letting us see that there are those watching and keeping score in secret.

There’s no doubt in my mind that Jesus knew their thoughts as well. His response has nothing to do with the doubters. Jesus accepts the woman’s offering and turns to her:

Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:50

Not her perfume, though that was expensive. Not her tears or wiping His feet, though that was appreciated. Her faith is more important than any thing she did.

Lord, may we do what is right, what is honorable, these things are important, but please increase our faith as we battle this crazy world!

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Luke: Jesus Affirms John the Baptist

Read: Luke 7:18-35

Affirmation. We all need to be affirmed by qualified sources, those whom we esteem to be an authority in our particular ministry. A car mechanic might not think working on the fuel injection system is a ministry, but I beg to differ! Everyone is a minister, each is an evangelist for that which they are wired to serve. I think we long for assurance that what we’re doing at this moment is the right thing, that it’s meaningful and important; otherwise, why do it?

Why should I type these words? Is it worth the time invested? The difference between good and great is often the affirmation that the task has some enduring impact.

In this morning’s passage, we’re somewhat shocked to read that John the Baptist actually needs some assurance that Jesus is who he’s been preparing the way for, that his ministry was on target and effective. I’m pretty sure John knows that his days are numbered. In light of his eminent execution, he wants to leave the world knowing he hit the target.

The way Jesus handles this situation models how we should disciple others, how we lead by honoring those who are doing their part for growing the kingdom, no matter how seemingly insignificant. This is not a simple pat-on-the-back, nor is it insincere, but I think it’s exactly what John needed to hear, as well as the others that Jesus addresses.

Are You Sure?

Calling two of them, he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Luke 7:18-19

John the Baptist was a prominent, notable figure in his day. Many people knew about his ministry and were compelled to be baptized by he and his disciples in response to his message.  Jesus even submitted to baptism by John. Perhaps while he is in chains, thanks to Herod, he thinks about the prophesies of the Messiah, how He will come and change the world. In those dark moments in prison, I wonder if John started to imagine how he would like to see the Messiah, his definition of who Jesus should be.

In sports, we refer to this as taking your eye off the ball, missing the catch because you were watching the oncoming defender or swinging at a ball that is nowhere to be found. Strike!  Fortunately, there are three strike to an out and four downs in a series–we get another chance.

John takes a swing and sends two for verification. Did he doubt? Yes. If the cousin of Jesus had doubts, rest assured your doubts are in good hands.

Jesus Responds

“Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard…Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” Luke 7:22-23

He could have said lots of things, but Jesus is proud of John, He is pleased with his ministry and is careful in his rebuke in verse 23, but make no mistake, Jesus smacks him for asking. And Peter and Thomas a bit later on. And you and me.

Here’s the thing, Jesus is completely truthful, but he has no desire to squash John or us. The mirror must reflect what it sees, but poorly created mirrors distort reality. Jesus is pure and perfect, yet chooses words carefully to show His appreciation for John while using his question as a teachable moment for those gathered. Cool stuff!

Children in the Marketplace

I love the parenthetical statement that Luke provides in Luke 7:29-30, but the Pharisees…

Jesus provides a parable of finger-pointing kids arguing for no valid reason. The Pharisees and teachers of the law have no clue. They refused to be baptized for sure, but more than that, they refused to see what was right in front of them.

Greg Wiens loves to talk about finding your A-Game. This is based on introspective analysis that is most useful when viewed from those who know us best, our friends and associates. It’s often difficult to see if one is really working within their greatest strengths and gifts. There is great value in affirming a brother or sister in Christ, providing appropriate feedback that they are doing what they are called to do.

Who should you affirm today?

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Luke: Legalism Concerns – Fasting and the Sabbath

Read: Luke 5:33-6:11

“They said to Him…” begins the reading for today and one of my recurring nightmares: will I be counted as one of them? Am I in the “they” group? Jesus wants us all to be part of His family, but He is not about checking boxes to gain acceptance, that would be easy, He is about transforming hearts. The transformation begins with the one I see in the mirror.

This morning, we’ll pick on the Pharisees and teachers of the law for a bit. They don’t get it at all. They’re caught up in their world of legalism even more than we’re caught up in our church world that’s so focused on the Sunday production that at times, sometimes far too often, we have no clue. The animosity between Jesus and the religious right begins to simmer in these passages. Luke will shift to teaching for a while, but wants us to see that at the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, “they” were watching, taking notes, and building their case. They’re always looking from the outside.

My prayer is we don’t become they.

Jesus Questioned About Fasting: Luke 5:33-39

This starts off with a simple question for clarification about fasting, or so it seems. Those who were being faithful to following their list of rules knew that fasting was something you were supposed to do, so they ask Jesus why His disciples are disobeying rule #___.

Jesus answered, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.” Luke 5:34-35

Ok, that just went right over their heads! They were looking for something more concrete and Jesus starts to explain something about a wedding celebration. They are scratching their heads, so He explains with a parable.

No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. Luke 5:38

My strange sense of humor sees them nodding in agreement: yep, that’s how you work with wine and wineskins, makes sense. But what about the fasting question? Luke lets that just slip on by. As we will see, their question is irrelevant, yet reveals their heart, their motivation. I think that’s the main point.

Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath: Luke 6:1-11

One Sabbath, then another, and another. Luke likes to point out when Jesus is teaching on the Sabbath, healing, loving, doing life on the day which is supposed to be a day of rest.

Then Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” Luke 6:5

I’m confident that God is serious about taking a day off, no doubt; otherwise, it wouldn’t make the top-ten list. We know from those who have invested a lot of time into researching the ways of the Pharisees, they had hundreds of rules about everything. I’d love to see a mindmap about these rules, how they centered on the Ten Commandments and branched off into rules about rules, etc. The geeky part of me would be fascinated by looking at 600+ segments. I can easily get distracted!

In this passage, Jesus makes a point of teaching the Pharisees in particular that He is above their rules. He can sense their confusion, so He heals a man with a shriveled right hand in front of everyone. No hiding, no call to step behind the curtain. Jesus wants to make a point.

Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?” Luke 6:9

I really think He’s really giving them a chance to see the err of their ways more than poking them in the eye. Their reaction reveals their heart, they become furious about Jesus’ actions and miss the fact that this man has been healed and quite likely can now begin to provide for his family.

Are we they?

I hope not, but don’t be too quick to answer. This is why we have each other, to hold each other accountable, but not a checklist. Checklists are for the head. Please tell me when I’m acting like a Pharisee! Let me know when I’ve slipped into Sunday production mode rather than being the hands and feet of Jesus for the lost, the lonely, the least! You are my brother and sister in Christ, don’t be afraid to call it like it is. My commitment to you is to do likewise. Don’t wait for Sunday.

Luke is carefully selecting stories that speak about transforming the heart. May our hearts be changed.

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Luke: When Jesus Saw Their Faith

Read: Luke 5:12-26

Consider two phrases in the passage we read today: Lord if you are willing and when Jesus saw their faith. Both demonstrate an unusual faith in a man they hardly knew.

They had heard about this preacher that was going from village to village, town to town, teaching good news, adding wisdom to wise sayings with a practical message for common people to hear.

Perhaps the most amazing thing they heard was His ability to cast our demons and heal people of sickness. This wasn’t normal by any stretch of the imagination. They seem to say, If Jesus could do that, I’m in! And they showed up in these stories.

My belief is these are just two of the many stories Luke had to consider when writing his narrative to share with others. In my imagination I can see him with a table full of newspaper clippings, reports from villages all over Judea about healing and restoration. Miracle after miracle. All with some common elements: Jesus was the rabbi at the center of all the news and He was trying to keep these incidents quiet.

I believe that Luke intersperses these miraculous events inside the details about calling the disciples to make this point: He wasn’t trying to draw followers, He was looking to make disciples.

Then Jesus ordered him, “Don’t tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” Luke 5:14

It’s interesting that Jesus points the cured leper back to the priest, that He keeps the focus on God’s system of sacrifice.

In a much more public miracle, the faith of friends is rewarded with healing a lame man.

So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Luke 5:24-25

Right in front of the pharisees and teachers of the law! This troublesome event (for the religious leaders) causes them to stumble and provides another teaching point for Jesus:

Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” Luke 5:23-24

Which is easier? Hmm…so I think I’ll just do both! The religious right have no idea how to respond.

The people were filled with awe and wonder (sounds like a song!). But Jesus isn’t trying to create a show, instead He’s trying to demonstrate the love of the Father for His people. In a way, He can’t not heal those who are sick because of His unbounded love and compassion.

It’s this deep-seated heart for people that I long to have, that I pray for consistently. Jesus sees their faith, sees their desire and looks beyond outward appearances — straight to their heart. Perfect discernment that is unencumbered by biased perspective based on human standards. It may be a stretch, but I believe we too can see the hearts of those seeking to know the love of Christ if we would let go of worldly desires.

Yesterday, the word contentment drove me to look for scripture about being content. Now I think I understand why. If I can be content, my own selfish desires disappear and I can see people as Jesus saw them–at least to a greater degree. If I am content, I don’t need anything from any interaction with someone else. My only aim is to point them to Christ.

My desire then becomes one of great compassion. When I see a brother or sister in pain, my prayer is to reach out and help in any way I can. All from a place of love, not from a desire to tell someone else about the wonderful things I have done.

Jesus points them back to God, the source of His power and strength.

Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.” Luke 5:26

As a result, they gave praise to God. That the result I’m hoping for.

Oh, one other thing:

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:16

I find it interesting that Jesus withdraws to lonely places to pray. He seeks solitude to quiet His human heart. Seriously. If Jesus needed to do this, how much more should I? No, I’m not advocating seclusion in a monastery, but we all need a place where we can hear from God.

When I searched for images for the featured image on this post, I used the term lonely. Literally hundreds of photos showed up. Yes, I want to find a place of solitude, but the fact that so many photos are tagged “lonely” points to a culture that is seeking what we have to offer. Please don’t get lost in the lonely place — just use this for meditation and prayer, not a hiding place!

I pray you can find your place today. Listen well my friend. God wants to speak to you, I’m sure of it.

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Luke: Jesus Begins With Disciples

Read: Luke 5:1-11, 5:27-32, 6:12-16

The readings this morning jump around a bit as I attempt to collect Luke’s writing about Jesus calling His disciples. Luke chose to weave the story of how Jesus called Peter (Simon) with the Zebedee brothers, James and John, and Matthew (Levi) in chapter 5, then provides a pivotal moment in chapter 6 when Jesus picks His team. It’s interesting to see how He chooses His disciples, especially when we consider our charge is to go and do likewise.

Trying to understand Luke’s perspective, I get the idea that Jesus invested time with people, challenged them to reveal their true character, then choose them individually. Of course this included Judas Iscariot, the betrayer, but we’ll leave that discussion for another time!

Jesus Calls His First Disciples: Luke 5:1-11

Luke begins with a story:

One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, Luke 5:1

Jesus was teaching the people who were working their trade. I suspect He was looking for those who were paying attention, the few that showed some interest beyond a casual glance.

He got into one of the boats, Luke 5:3

Honestly, I don’t think Jesus just randomly picked a boat. I’m not sure how it worked in ancient times, but today, you don’t just walk down to the marina and jump in someone’s boat and suggest we go fishing. Not at all. Jesus is teaching those who were listening with interest, so he tests them a bit and Peter’s response is important for us to wrestle with:

But because you say so, I will Luke 5:5

Ah yes, because you say so, I will. It’s pretty clear when Jesus speaks we should obey. In this story, Peter explains they’ve finished fishing in the area, but doesn’t hesitate to do what Jesus said. I love this! Years ago, I wrote a song for Vacation Bible School based on this verse. I’ve probably told you the story behind the song before, but it’s fun to recall the process. My initial attempts at writing the song was a rock-n-roll, driving beat, BECAUSE YOU SAY SO I WILL!!! kinda song. All of that failed to connect. Instead, if you listen, you’ll hear a very different kinda song that’s led by a mother of six with a gentle voice and a flute part played by a high school senior. Totally different than I intended, but I wish I could explain how beautiful it was to hear 300+ children (no exaggeration) sing this at VBS.

I still believe this was what Jesus wanted, His words, my attempt to obey.

Simon Peter’s response was to fall at the knees of Jesus, unworthy, humbled — called by Jesus Himself. How about you?

Jesus Calls Levi and Eats With Sinners: Luke 5:27-32

After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. “Follow me,” Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed him. Luke 5:27-28

The way Luke writes this, the event sounds totally random, but once again, in my opinion, this was not arbitrary. I believe Jesus is teaching us to look beyond outward appearances when we see people. I know that discernment is a gift of the Spirit that is stronger in some than others, but I believe we all have the ability to see with the eyes of the Spirit if we pray and slow down long enough to listen for the answer. Those whose top-3 gifts include discernment don’t have to try very hard…others might have to be a bit more assertive.

My point is this: look beyond the trappings of the world and pray for discernment.

Matthew’s response is to throw a party! Jesus must think this is a great idea–to have a house full of people that know nothing about God’s plan of reconciliation. What an opportunity for sharing the Gospel!! The Pharisees and Teachers of the Law had some discouraging thoughts (why were they there??), but Jesus shuts them down quickly:

“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:31-32

Terse words for those who’ve fallen into the trap of a legalistic religion. Makes me think about the Pharisaic Survey again, the one we haven’t written, that reveals just how much of a Pharisee I am!

The Twelve Apostles

One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them… Luke 6:12-16

The implication of this text suggests that Jesus called many to follow Him, like Peter, James, John, Matthew, etc., but here we see a select few are named as His disciples. The distinction is important. These will be the few He will pour into collectively and individually.

Jesus took time to choose these guys. It didn’t happen while walking in the marketplace or marina. As we are reminded of Jesus’ habit, He went to a quiet place to pray. If Jesus needed to quiet His human mind and pray, I’m convinced this is something we need to do quite often.  Whether we meditate during Yoga, running, walking, or sitting quietly, we need to stop and pray.

After a night of praying, Jesus picked the twelve.

Lord, help us to learn from Your example, Your way of making disciples. Teach us to not be biased, to get distracted by outward appearance. Show us how to build relationships that advance Your kingdom here on earth.

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