Mark 12:1-17 – More Than a Parable

Read Mark 12:1-17

Jesus loved to use stories, known as parables, in his teaching. While always memorable, the meanings are not always clear. But God allowed these religious leaders to understand the truth about who they represented in the story. I’m guessing that was Jesus’ intent all along, hoping they would not be too blind to recognize themselves. Their exit must have spoken volumes to Jesus. The crowd was likely clueless.

What caution can we take from the story? It may be easy for us to see the relationship between the landowner and God, who sent his son (Jesus) into the world. Jesus paid with his life, too. We don’t want to be like the greedy farmers who disrespect God or his Son. We can look around the world today and see plenty of examples of that. Does it break your heart, too? Continue reading “Mark 12:1-17 – More Than a Parable”

1 Peter 2:1-10 – Living Stones

Read 1 Peter 2:1-10

It’s all about representing Jesus well. We just heard in our last reading about holy living, and now we learn we’re to be living stones! To get ready for that, Peter begins by commanding a cleanse. He knew firsthand how easily it was to fall prey to the world and let fear or doubt take control. You may even say things you don’t mean! Peter calls us to be real and not fake.

What does a living stone do? What are our job requirements? Peter was a living stone, building his life on the truth of Jesus Christ. What did Peter do? He told people about Jesus. Peter describes us as: “You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession.” There’s that bit about being holy again. Peter wants for us to be holy because that’s what Jesus wants for us. His kingdom is being populated with royal priests who are holy!

Continue reading “1 Peter 2:1-10 – Living Stones”
error

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)