Tag Archives: the book of Matthew

January 25
2 Comments
Uncategorized Aside

“Then he said to them, ‘So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.’” (Matthew 22:21b, NIV)

We know what belongs to Caesar.  Caesar’s name is on his money.  Caesar collects his tax from wages, even before it is deposited in our personal accounts. Caesar has laws for conduct that must be obeyed under penalty of fine or imprisonment. We get it, and we render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar because it is right to do so.

On the other hand, what belongs to God?

For an answer, we need look no further than the first book of the Bible (Genesis), where we see that we each were created in the image and likeness of God. As coin and currency bears the image and likeness of Caesar (a.k.a civil government), it is God’s image only that is borne by you and me.

While Caesar is about possessions and property, God is always about persons.  We belong to God, and God desires our fellowship.  He desires nothing more; and we should offer Him nothing less.  – Luther

Tagged , , ,
January 22
1 Comment
Uncategorized Aside
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. ‘” (Matthew 19:14, NIV) 

There is much the disciple of Jesus can learn from a child: Humility, a readiness to learn, and a natural attraction to the One who loves them.

When was the last time you approached the dawning day as young children do: With openness, wonder, enthusiasm, and joy?

When was the last time you approached our Lord as the children, in today’s scripture reading, did: Desiring only to be near Him?

Do not fear or suppress the child within you.  “The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”  – Luther

Tagged , , ,
January 17
Leave a comment
Uncategorized Aside

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, KJV)

Strange as it seems, some people (no matter how tired, weary, harried, or over-committed) will just not take a break. 

Such folks rise early; retire late; work every weekend; and lose vacation time routinely.  For such persons, work is not a means — but an end; a tyrannical, dead end.  To such persons, Jesus offers a simple, effective, alternative: “Come unto me. . . and I will give you rest.”

Take time to pray.  Take time to listen to the Holy Spirit.  Take time to meditate on His word — and He will give you rest.   – Luther

Tagged , , , ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →