PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 8:16-18
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Therefore consider carefully how you listen.” (Luke 8:18)
The previous parable (vv.4-15) was about hearing and listening.
These words explain that parable further: what happens when we truly hear.
If something is received, it will be visible – like a lit lamp.
If I claim to have received the message, it should be evident in how I live.
If seed is planted in my heart, it will show, and it will grow!.
Jesus is challenging listeners, believers, followers to consider carefully.
‘Have you really received me, have you really opened your heart to me?’
Apparently Jesus knew that many would claim to know him, but not show it.
Their light will be hidden, their fruit will not match the tree.
This is a challenge many church-attenders need to consider carefully.
Why are so many Christians NOT known for compassion, generosity, mercy?
Where is the bright light shining from Jesus-followers today?
Are many church attenders more like seed on the rocks or among the weeds?
Consider carefully how you listen… is it actually producing new life in us?
PRAYER
Lord, after so many years, I still hear you calling me to open my heart to you fully… will I listen?
Not quite sure how to interpret this – however, the clause: “consider carefully how you listen” seems to be the key. It causes me in the context of the passage to ask – what is the intent of my listening? If I am looking for more selfish aims – how can I benefit from the listening – especially motives that are not helpful to others but rather serving my own ego. Listening with an intent to learn and practice what the scripture is teaching – what Jesus is saying – with an eye to bless others – or listening and reflecting that leads to things that I need to change – I think is careful listening! Help me to listen to your spirit’s leading and not caught up in my own ambitions!
The Light of Christ is the only true light showing the way. When we have this light we will not stumble or fall for that light brings joy and peace which needs to be shared to all. I need to radiate that light to others in word and deed.
The whole world was lost
In the darkness of sin,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Like sunshine at noonday,
His glory shone in.
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Refrain
Come to the light, ’tis shining for thee;
Sweetly the light has dawned upon me.
Once I was blind, but now I can see:
The Light of the world is Jesus!
No darkness have we
Who in Jesus abide;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
We walk in the light
When we follow our Guide!
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Refrain
Ye dwellers in darkness
With sin blinded eyes,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Go, wash, at His bidding,
And light will arise.
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Refrain
No need of the sunlight
In Heaven we’re told;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
The Lamb is the Light
In the city of gold,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Refrain