Reading: Luke 14:1-14

It was the Sabbath. Jesus’ enemies watched Him. A sick man appeared. Jesus asked His enemies if healing on that day was lawful.

“And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go” (4).

Jesus knew doing the will of God would cost Him. He knew they would falsely accuse Him. He knew they would put a negative spin on what He said and did.

But He did it anyway.

And He did it without any evil intent or motivation. (In other words, He didn’t do it to make His adversaries mad or to mock them or to pick a fight with them.)

At times I too easily turn away from doing what is right because I know it will cost me.

At other times I do what is right with the wrong intent or motivation.

But God is helping me overcome both of those weaknesses!

from Luke 14:14

A little bit more from Luke 14: Been There . . . .

Reading: Luke 13:18-35

Listen to Jesus’ heart. Hear the love and sadness (so often they go together, you know):

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!” (34).

Reading that verse this morning stirs my heart.

That’s how I want to love my family. That’s how I want to pray for my family. That’s how I want to care for them and watch over them. That’s how I want to connect with them.

Oh, wow. How desperately I need the Lord’s help!

I am encouraged to remember that He has not turned away from this inept and imperfect husband and father. If I would (let Him), He will shelter me close as a hen does her chicks.

from Luke 13:24

A little bit more from Luke 13: Who Is Chosen?