July 21, 2018

July 21, 2018

Judy Hollaway

April 14

Running with Jesus

Luke 15:1-2 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

(Many tax collectors and sinners came to listen to Jesus. Then the Pharisees and the teachers of the law began to complain, “Look, this man welcomes sinners and even eats with them!”)

                I want us to look at two types of people in these two verses and let’s analyze the people. The first set Luke said were tax collectors and sinners. Now what did they come to do? Listen to Jesus! It is very interesting that sinners were there to listen. Listen in Greek can mean to hear Gods word to prompt faith! 

                  The second set were those Pharisees who are keeping up the pace running with Jesus. What were they doing? Complaining and judging just waiting to find a way to put Jesus to death. 

                 Today we have the same two kinds of people in the world and in the church, sadly to say. Those who come to hear a word from God to birth faith and those who are religious just come and are always looking to find fault.

                So where do you fall judging or listening! 

                  I remember when I got serious with learning and I sat down at my table with pen and paper. God gave me Psalm 32:8  "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you."

                   I had a reading comprehension problem growing up.  Through studying scripture I overcame my handicap. I remember it was as though the blinders were removed. I was able to read and comprehend. My ears were tuned in to listen to Jesus. The first things I remember hearing God say as I read was "I love you"                  I can't help thinking about like the sinners and the hated tax collectors! They were getting relief and hope! The religious could not see sin because of their ego and pride. They were learned in the law and tradition and they missed salvation! 

Father, help us to be good runners. In order to run we have to be a good listener! As Your Word is preached help us hear! Let us approach Your Word every day with a heart and mind to hear so our faith can be prompted! 

Lost sheep, in the morning!