God knows us, loves us and cares for us. Indeed, Jesus primary commandment; love one another – for we are each talented, unique and loved by God. All of us are different, and we are each differently abled; do we realise the challenge and barriers those around us may experience – and where we do, are we seeing where people fail: instead of embrace their unique strengths?
Everyone is hungry – we’re all looking for bread; however, the problem isn’t that we’re hungry – the problem is with the type of bread we eat. Are we eating the bread of loneliness, regret, selfishness – or accepting the living bread that is Jesus – offering himself in all of our relationships?
The lost sheep; we’re all familiar with the story – but do you believe it? Do you doubt with a nagging internal monologue stating “I’m not good enough” that Jesus won’t find you worthy, over that of friends or family? Or on the other side of the story – if we feel we’re doing everything right, why should the lost who comes back through Jesus take priority over us?
Have you said “yes” before reading the small print first? There’s a cost, to discipleship – and Jesus warns us of this. Are we sometimes guilty of portraying the Christian faith as simple, not requiring full commitment? Of course we want to be welcoming …but are we guilty of making it seem too easy?
The kingdom of God, the perfect society, is often pictured as a banquet. It is a meal for everyone, not a private dinner for two: the dishes are for all, equally and there is more than enough for everyone.
The miracles of this planet are simply mind boggling. So much life, so much diversity: created by a loving God who lends us this planet in trust. However, do we forget this, acting as if we own it – and in the process, abuse it for our selfish gain? Is it too late; or is there time to realise – and return through Jesus the respect this world deserves, by respecting who truly owns the land?
God asks us to give; but how often do we think of excuses or reasons why perhaps we cannot? If only we had more time, or were more skilled? But if we had the time, the skills, the confidence or the money – how quickly would many of us give this back to God?
Red Sky at Night, shepherds delight; red sky at morning, sailors a warning. How good are you at predicting things? In our Gospel reading, it seems the Jews were unable to move from earthly interpretations of the weather to spiritual interpretations of Jesus.
Predictions for the end of the world are running at roughly one a year: the next is on track for 2020. In 2012, polls over twenty countries found that over 40% of people believed the end of the world would come within their life times. Does it mean anything to us: are we focusing on the treasure in heaven that matters – or on ourselves?
There’s a need for clear communication when we need help – be that in sickness or adversity. We and those that we care for all need help at some time or another at some time in our lives and we need to be able to communicate our need with those around us.
