Haahaa!!! So, ok. Pastor Chris has challenged the Genesis Church staff and elders to read the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) in 60 days. Well, I started off slow, but have made myself take 45 mins. each morning to read. And I have not been let down. God has shown me things that I have never seen, in The Bible, upon previous reads. Most of those things have humored me and today was no different.
So, I'm reading Luke 13:31-35. The Pharisees (you know, the really "religious" guys) did not like Jesus at all because he called them out on so many things they were doing, just for show. Well, they told Jesus that Herod wanted him dead, so that he would leave their area and flee to Judea. Jesus replied, "Go tell that fox, 'I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal...'"
Heehee....He called Herod a FOX (a crafty animal). I think he might have been a little mad, huh? Jesus got mad????? Oh yeah, and he let people know, too. Now, did he keep on and on and on about it? Seek revenge on Herod or the people of Jerusalem? No! Actually, he shows how sorrowful he was for them. The following scriptures show how Jesus longed to be a part of the people of Jerusalem's life, but they weren't willing. He tells them that, because of their unwillingness to be cradled by him, they will not see him again, until his final return.
So, just when I thought God wanted to only humor me today I realize he wants to say so much more. God tells me that he wants to take me under his wing to protect, love, nurture, adore, and give to me but I have to be willing to receive. Part of receiving all he has to offer is allowing him to be my God, my Father. That means, I have to follow his rules (or HIS WILL) just like I expect my children to follow my rules.
So many times I was sure I let God down, to the point where I thought it impossible to be in relationship with Him again, or to receive his many promises, but every time I come back to him, with a willing and broken heart, he has shed his grace and abundant mercy on me.
Just like your mom or dad would wait for you if you were to go away, and accept you with open arms upon your return, God is waiting for you. Just waiting.....
