August 6, 2014

John 8: 47 Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

 The Pharisees are after Jesus. They are trying to outsmart him--to get him to say or do something illegal so that they can have him killed. He knows that, and he tries to explain himself. They don't get it. They want to believe that he is an egomaniac, someone who wants to be famous. He doesn't deny who he is--that would be wrong-- but he can't get the truth to resonate with them. They are not in a relationship with God, so they can't hear the truth in Jesus's words.

 I know who Jesus is. I am humbled by the gift of faith given to me and nurtured by my church and my family. I am upset with those who, like the Pharisees, can't or won't hear the truth. Seeing the way people act at the great cathedrals of Europe makes me more upset. I am worried about this world and the people in it.

 Prayer: Lord, Your people are so unfaithful. I include myself in that number, but my lack of faith is transient. l allow the distractions of this world divert me from the truth. I don't deny Your power and glory. I pray for those who don't hear You in their lives. I pray that they will turn to You and accept all You offer. I pray for myself as well. I need You, and I need to be more cognizant of that in my daily life. Guide my thoughts, words and actions to Your will for me.
Amen