PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 16:19-31
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. (Luke 16:22)
The Jews saw themselves as Abraham’s children, heirs of the promise.
But in this story, being related to Abraham is not enough.
It is not physical heirs of Abraham, but spiritual heirs.
Look at the people Jesus honours with Abraham:
* the unclean bleeding woman a daughter of Abraham (Luke 13:16)
* tax collector Zacchaeus was a son of Abraham (Luke 19:9)
* the Roman centurion’s had faith like Abraham (Matthew 8:10-12)
We are called to be like Abraham, to do what he did (John 8:39).
Abraham was blessed to bless the nations (Genesis 12:1-3).
In this story the rich man blesses himself and disregards others.
If we can’t be trusted with this blessing, we lose it (see 16:10-12).
Jesus is the promised seed of Abraham, showing us how to bless others.
He challenges the proud, and offers grace to the humbled.
Am I more like the religious proud, or like the humble beggar?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to be a child of Abraham in sharing, not hoarding, God’s blessing.
“‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’” Today we would have to say Jesus – his teachings, his way – the gospel – and the nudging of the HS. Not listening, not responding to Jesus’ invitation – there is no way we could convince people. We also know that Jesus was resurrected and many saw him – it is their testimony that confirms the message of salvation. Yet it still requires one to believe. It took faith then to trust the Moses and the Prophets and it takes faith now to trust Jesus. I believe, help me Lord to overcome any unbelief in my life!
At all times I need to serve the living God. I was created to serve Him a the days of my life with the gifts received from His hand. I am reminded of the parable of the talents – all is from His hand to be used in kingdom service and not self service. Others need to see that I serve the living God by my words and deeds this day and always.
Jesus, all for Jesus
All I am and have and ever hope to be
Jesus, all for Jesus
All I am and have and ever hope to be
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into your hands
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into your hands
For it’s only in your will that I am free
For it’s only in your will that I am free
Jesus, all for Jesus
All I am and have and ever hope to be