Here in the past few days, I have been led to Luke’s Gospel in my daily devotionals. Not sure exactly why – but over the years, I have learned to quit wondering/asking why and just soak on where God plants me. Took a while to get to that point – but in His time, He delivered me from my own “why” questions. But clearly, it has been God-ordered for me to be in Luke’s Gospel at this time, that is evident for more reasons than I can possibly glean right here.
Anyway, in Luke 17 there is nestled a record that is familiar among many Christians. In fact, it is a popular teaching and preaching topic: The Mustard Seed Faith. A fascinating analogy taught by the Master that captures so much truth. Yet, how often we over complicate it. How often we miss the context. How often we read right past it.
The chapter before, in Luke 16, Jesus is giving some very powerful teaching about His Kingdom. It is precise and calculated. It cuts to the heart. Read it – there is powerful truth in the Good News and it has been preserved to instruct, equip, and encourage us. When I read, I try to also be mindful of how the original followers and disciples would receive His teaching. Though we will never know fully – we can get a pretty good picture. Especially as it relates to the 12 disciples. They were uncertain. They wondered. At times it seems like they just didn’t get it. They speak when they should listen. They stick their foot in their mouth. They say things they don’t back up. They deal with fear. They have challenges. They are average, ordinary men. Any of that sound familiar?
If your brother sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. 4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” And the only response that Jesus’ followers, His disciples, could utter, was this: “Lord, increase our faith!” (v.5).
Here is my point: If we will trust God, believe fully in His power and provision, and seek after His heart and will – He will increase our faith. In fact, our faith will move! He said it would! And it all begins with faith as a “mustard seed.” That is all it takes. Not riches. Not a fine education from a top notch university. Not a pile of degrees. Not a boatload of awards and personal achievements. But faith – faith as a mustard seed.
This Sunday (4-28-13), Lord willing, I am going to share about this mustard seed faith. Just know it is Good News no matter who you are. He is able to take your mustard seed and turn it into something amazing! Know that. His power within us can lead to our believing, and living, that all things are possible with God. Join us this week as we dig deeper ~ we would love to have you!
Joy and power are found in Him!
Porter
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