Luke 9:51-56…
How often do we presume to be standing up for the honor of God, and yet we do so in a manner not worthy of His grace? How many times have you seen someone in print, or television, on the internet, or in person blaspheme the name of the Lord, or say derogatory things about God? How many of those times have you wanted to be like the Apostle Paul in Acts 13:10-11, and say to the offender, “I blind thee, wretched scum!” Tell the truth; aren’t you just like the disciples here, presuming to defend the honor of God, all the while defending your own self-esteem?
You must realize that we are recipients of God’s mercy, and we should be merciful to others (Matthew 5:7). We should not act hastily in judgment of those who do not believe; we wouldn’t either if it were not for God’s grace. This should make us humble, not hardened. Yes we should stand for what is right, but we do not have the right to strike down those who dishonor God. Jesus will defend His own honor; in due time (2 Thessalonians 1:8 / Jude 15).
In truth, the people of the village were in the wrong; they didn’t receive Christ because He was seemingly looking past them to His destiny in Jerusalem. How like our own lives today, when Jesus is doing something for someone we know, but not for us, and so we complain about it!
This whole scenario points at us, and says, “Hold your fire; you may be aiming at yourself.”
3 comments:
“Hold your fire; you may be aiming at yourself.”
Love this! It is soooo true. Similar to the removing of the mote vs. stick.
Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Matthew 7:3
Thank you Lord for mercy and grace. Help us to show the same to others.
Indeed...
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