THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 9:51-56
“Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them ?” (Luke 9:54)
James and John were called the sons of thunder, and we see why (Mark 3:17).
They seemed to have a thirst for power, and for using it (Mark 10:35f).
They were followers of Jesus, yet they did not know the Spirit of Jesus.
Sadly through history the church has been a lot like James and John.
As the church came into power, it used that power to crush their opponents.
This is not unique to the church, it is seen in all humans.
But one would think that being with Jesus would change that.
In fact, this is what should happen, and the whole purpose of Jesus.
Our hearts should be on fire, but not the fire of anger, greed, lust, etc.
Jesus did not come to strike down our enemies, but to crush the enemy in us.
It is our own drive for self, greed, power, revenge, etc. that must die.
Jesus is challenging us to look within at our own impulses and desires.
Does my heart reflect the Jesus Way – of love, joy, peace, grace, mercy?
Am I led more by greed or generosity, lust or love, anger or mercy?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You rebuke me in love, to expose my selfish impulses and ignite Your loving impulses. Set my heart on fire for Your love!!
Jerusalem – Jesus knew where He had to go to suffer and die so that His followers have life eternal. Yet the disciples were not in tune. They wanted to destroy the opposition. Jesus came to die so that all may have life forevermore. His grace is sufficient for all. Follow Him. Bring others to Him. Be living witnesses of His grace and truth and power. Serve the risen Saviour. Live for Jesus each day anew. Be a living letter of His grace.
1 Grace and truth shall mark the way
Where the Lord His own will lead,
If His word they still obey
And His testimonies heed.
2 For Thy Name’s sake hear Thou me,
For Thy mercy, Lord, I wait;
Pardon my iniquity,
For my sin is very great.
3 He who walks in godly fear
In the pat of truth shall go;
Peace shall be his portion here,
And his sons all good shall know.
4 They that fear and love the Lord
Shall Jehovah’s friendship know;
He will grace to them accord,
And His faithful covenant show.