JESUS SPEAKING
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; and assuredly, I say to you, you shall not see Me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”‘ (Luke 13: 34 -35)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Like a mother protecting her young, God’s affection for Israel was unparalleled. He displayed remarkable patience, relentlessly pursuing them throughout the generations. And yet despite His vigorous efforts, the Jewish people rejected Him. Rather than embracing repentance, they chose to kill the prophets who were sent to them; eventually orchestrating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Most assuredly, those who reject God’s message will suffer.
Many years ago, I felt compelled to minister to a man who was struggling with drug addiction and alcoholism. He was making ends meet, working at a local grocery store. He couldn’t drive because His license had been suspended after crashing his vehicle while intoxicated. I showed him the love of God, assisting him in many ways. I also preached the gospel to him, emphasizing his obligation to repent and remain sober. Additionally, I brought him along with me to many Christian events, where we served others in the community. After a short period of progress, he began to spiral out of control again. He eventually shut me out of his life; severing our communication. A bit of time passed, until one day I was informed of a great tragedy. He had gotten his license back and purchased a car. However, one evening he was driving while intoxicated and struck a woman walking along the sidewalk; the woman was killed. He suffered for his crime; spending a number of years in prison.
The Lord is patient and kind; manifesting His affection for even the worst sinners. Even today God’s messengers are carrying the gospel throughout the world. This simple message has never changed. Man’s obligation is to repent and to be reconciled to God through His son Jesus Christ. Since God requires change, sin must be abandoned and a new life must be embraced. Anyone who refuses to change will suffer. But those who choose rightly will know unending joy and peace.
Lord Heavenly Father, may we experience your great love and be transformed by it. May we avoid being stubborn and choose obedience. In turn, may we continue as Your messengers; carrying the gospel to all those who are lost in darkness. You alone God possess the power to turn darkness into light; and to save others that are suffering in sin. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
