Tag Archives: the book of Luke

April 28
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“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11, NIV)

Humility.

Jesus tells us that we ought not exalt ourselves (e. g., seek time in the spotlight).  In other words, do not covet a status that is higher, larger, or more powerful, for personal benefit or glorification.

Our ego is fed by such things, but in the context of today’s scripture Jesus challenges us to resist the temptation of self-promotion and self-elevation so common in our society.  We should, instead, take our place with the least and the last among us.  In God’s time, truly humble individuals are always recognized with a public promotion that no one can take-back or take away.  – Luther

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April 27
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“The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” (Luke 12:47-48, NIV)

Accountability.

The harsh images of this passage remind us of three important things about accountability: Knowing, being, and doing.

First, we are to know the Master’s will.  As we are instructed in 2 Timothy 2:15: Study to show ourselves approved of God, a workman who need not be ashamed.”  Second, we are to be in the state of readiness.  Third, we are to do our duty in obedience to our Master’s will. To know, to be, or to do otherwise invites rebuke.

Be diligent in both the acquisition of the tools of discipleship — and in the use of those tools for the glory of God — so that when the Master returns, you may have reason for great joy when called to give an accounting of your stewardship of time, talent, and treasure.  – Luther

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April 18
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“The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, ‘Return home and tell how much God has done for you.’ So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him.” (Luke 8:38-39, NIV)

“You can’t go home again,” is the title of a famous book written by Thomas Wolfe (1900-1938). Returning home is not always a pleasant option. It certainly was not a cheerful thought for the man in today’s scripture, whom Jesus had liberated from the tyranny of demon-possession.

Perhaps the man feared the taunts of those who remembered him in his former state. Perhaps he thought that his new life warranted a fresh start in a new place. Perhaps he thought that he could do more for the reputation of Jesus as a part of the Master’s entourage than he could by returning to the skeptical folks at home.

However, Jesus had other ideas. “Return home and tell how much God has done for you,” Jesus told the man. He is telling you and me the same thing today.

Our task is a simple one: Tell what God has done for you. Our witness, as modeled in the sequence of Jesus’ last words on earth to His church, begins at home (Jerusalem) before extending to our “Judea and Samaria” and to the “end of the earth.” (Please see Acts 1:8.)

Be bold. Give God the glory. No one can tell your story better than you. Be faithful in this simple task.  – Luther

Reminder: As normally done, Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow. Have a great day in worship! The risen Lord reigns! Hallelujah!

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