READ: Matthew
20
God’s heart and our own hearts often beat very differently! In the
parable of the vineyard workers, Jesus tells a story that highlights the
reality that God’s heart is so full of mercy that even those who make a later
commitment to Him are seen as incredibly worthwhile. He also warns of those who
would complain about such mercy, “the first”, who have a different way of doing
math. They, in reality, end up “last”. There are elements to this parable that
we may not fully understand – do the “last” still go to heaven? Is this simply
speaking of rewards in heaven? At times Jesus leaves details out, likely to
cause us to seek His heart. He wants us to shift away from our way of looking
at things to His way.
A similar point is made in Jesus’ handling of the request for the sons
of Zebedee to have a place of honor in the future kingdom. The perspective of
those who are following Jesus is way off! While there IS glory in the future,
there is also much suffering, even death and of course, service ahead of those
who follow Jesus. Jesus speaks openly of His death and notes that others will
drink a similar “cup”. He is preparing His disciples to not be surprised. He
then challenges them – and us! – that “whoever wants to be first must be your
slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve . . .”
Brothers and sisters, this is how to be “first”. We must serve as Jesus did. Now there’s an incredible
calling!
The chapter concludes with a powerful story of two blind men receiving
sight! They plead for God’s mercy! Once again, we see that others don’t have
the heart of God and want to shove aside these poor, desperate souls that God
loves. Jesus has a different plan! “Jesus had compassion on them and touched
their eyes.” Truly Jesus was doing this miracle for the sake of these two men,
but also hoping that the spiritual eyes and hearts of the spiritually dull
would also open up as well.
JOURNALING
AND PRAYER
1.
It is vital that we have God’s heart, desiring His mercy for all who
might come to Him. Is there anyone in your life who you might struggle to see
forgiven? Is there anyone that you’ve been withholding love from because they
don’t seem worthy? Confess and repent of this kind of heart, a heart that is
not God’s.
2.
Jesus elevates being a servant! It was His way, and will be the way of
all who follow Him. Ask these questions – does my family or those I live with see me as a servant? What about my
co-workers? What about my church involvement – do I serve, and am I willing to
lay down my life for others?
3.
Jesus healed the two blind men out of compassion. Ask God to show you
anyone that you can show compassion towards in the next day or two. Be open to
surprises!
