Jesus Marveled
The Gospel writers record two occasions during the public
ministry of Jesus on which the Lord “marveled” or “wondered” at a particular event, and significantly both involved the matter of faith. We recall the words of a Roman soldier: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should come under my roof, but just say the word and my servant will be healed” (Matt 8:8). Jesus “marveled” and rejoiced at this expression of “great faith” from a Gentile, a faith that eclipsed anything He had encountered “in Israel” (v 10).
Unfortunately on another occasion, Jesus’ amazement is born of sorrow at the absence of such faith in the hearts of those who had had every reason to listen to Him. In His “home town” of Nazareth (Matt 13:54; Mk 6:1) Jesus’ friends and neighbours (Matt 13:55, 56; Mk 6:3) “took offence at Him” (Matt 13:57; Mk6:3) and showed Him no respect (Matt 13:57; Mk 6: 4) despite the fact that they knew of His miracles (Matt 13:54; Mk 6:2). Mark tells us that the Lord “wondered at their unbelief,” (Mk 6:6) and it’s not surprising!
It is clear then that faith is not simply a matter of intellectual conviction, but involves the will as well. According to John the beloved disciple, there are seven witnesses to Jesus, including the Father (5:31, 34, 37; 8:18) the Son Himself (8:14, 18 cf 3:11, 32; 8:37) and the Holy Spirit (15:26 cf 16:14). Additionally, the works of Jesus (5:36; 10:25 cf 14:11; 15:24) the sacred Scripture, (5:39; cf 5:45) John the Baptist, (1:7) and various individuals (15:27; cf 19; 35; 21:24) bore testimony to Jesus. as did the seven miraculous signs selected from His public ministry (chpts 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11). Yet John concludes his account of Jesus public ministry: “But though (Jesus) had performed so many signs before them, yet they were not believing in Him!” (12:37). The problem is not the absence of evidence but the refusal of many to accept that evidence. Jesus assures us that the “man (who) is willing to do His will” will recognise the divine source of His teaching, (Jn 6:17) while the failure of many to “hear” His word reflects their desire to do the will of their father “the devil” (8:43). Absence of proof is not the problem – perversity of the human will is the problem. May we pray for sensitive and receptive hearts. (Rex)
How Do You Hear?
She said, “I need custard for the trifle.” Hubby said, “yes dear,” and brought home a tin of mustard. Not quite what she had in mind for the trifle, but “yes dears” mean very little when hubby has his head buried in a book or his eyes glued to a computer screen.
Such domestic confusion provides the stand-up comic with good material, but in some cases the failure to listen carefully can truly blight our lives. That’s why Jesus once warned His disciples “Therefore take care how (“in what way” – Thayer) you listen!” (Lk 8:18). Jesus wasn’t discussing trifles but deep spiritual truth, and He knew that men and women make decisions about how they hear that truth. Years ago, I made the decision to scrutinize Jesus’ words through a microscope with just one goal: to find “contradictions”, “absurdities” “inconsistencies” or anything else which would justify turning my back on Him. Foolish decision. Regrettable results.
It’s equally regrettable when we fall into the trap of listening without conviction. The Lord once told Ezekiel:
“My people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice … 32 Indeed, to them you are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice.”
Ezekiel’s listeners found his symbolic actions and dramatic words entertaining, but there’s no need to make a response to an entertainer. Entertainment does not produce a repentant, heartfelt response.
So how are you and I doing in this respect? I find it encouraging to hear uplifting sermons on love joy peace and patience etc but the question is, am I more inclined to go the extra mile and turn the other cheek in real life when the sermon is over? Am I entertained or convicted? Songs about El Shaddai thrill the soul, but do I trust God more on Monday having sung them with gusto the previous day? I ask this question because Jesus goes on to say that “whoever has, to him shall more be given” (Lk 8:18). I take this to mean that if we build upon the light, the grace and opportunities we have today we will enjoy more light, more grace and more opportunities tomorrow. No, we cannot be perfect, but we can resolve to listen to the Lord with open hearts and make the promise ours. It’s not a matter of accidental circumstances – it’s a matter of choice.
Rex
0 Comments