Tag Archives: the book of Luke

April 16
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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.

This passage is harsh (what with all the beatings — which are figurative, not literal, I believe), but it reminds we disciples of Jesus that we are (1) to know the Master’s will — in other words, “to study to show ourselves approved of God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed. . .”; (2) to maintain a state of readiness; and (3) to be obedient to our Master’s will. Being — or doing — otherwise always requires a painful reckoning.

This passage ought to remind us that we are going to be held accountable for what we know — and for what we ought to have known.  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 14
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“A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.'” (Luke 22:24-26, NIV)

We now see the glory of the Resurrection, but before we arrive at Easter we must leave Palm Sunday and endure Good Friday. Our attitude through all of it, according to Jesus, is to be as He was: The least of all.  The last of all.  The servant of all. 

The disciples were acting out of their corrupted nature (which, as people, we all share).  This nature aspires to be the greatest of all.  This nature desires to be the first of all. This nature expects to be served by all. 

Because of what Jesus has done for all of us through His death on the cross, and through His resurrection from the dead; His summons to servitude is validated for all time and for all people. Our corrupted, natural ambitions assure nothing but strife, but our obedience to Jesus assures us life in all of its fullness.  – Luther

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April 5
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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)

The adage, “You can’t go home again,” is the title of a famous novel written by Thomas Wolfe (published posthumously in 1940).  Returning home is not always a pleasant option. It certainly was not a cheerful thought for the man in today’s scripture, for whom Jesus had liberated from the tyranny of demon-possession.

Perhaps he 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.  No one can tell your story better than you. Be faithful in this simple task.

Be bold in your proclamations — and give God all of the credit.  – Luther

Reminder: As normally done, Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow.  Have a great day in worship and praise! 

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