THE STORY OF JESUS: Matthew 4:12-17
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 4:17)
Do you handle criticism or correction well?
Does it inspire you, or discourage you, or anger you?
Honestly, I do not like being corrected, because it implies failure.
I already beat myself up enough, its worse when others join in.
And now Jesus comes at me (us) with this word REPENT!
Turn around, change your way of thinking and living, get straight with God!
This word does not convey ‘good news’ but ‘bad news’, at least how we hear it.
But in this passage it is part of the ‘great light’ message for people living in darkness.
It is part of a promise of God’s kingdom, the better world God has in mind for us.
He is urging us to admit that we are living in darkness, hindering ourselves from God’s joy.
But more than that, to look with hope to Him for something better.
God’s better world IS coming, Jesus is establishing it for us and with us.
His command to repent is an appeal, a pleading in love, an eager invitation.
Discover the life you were made for, the life you long for, the life God offers you.
This is how Jesus is correcting me, He is NOT beating me up but lifting me up.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, lately I am feeling the darkness, I need to hear this invitation again. Help me to understand that You are not criticizing me, You are calling me home!