Am I leading a Rebellion?

When Jesus was arrested in the garden of Gethsemane, he challenged the mob that had gathered with swords and clubs: "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me?" (Matthew 26:55). 

Jesus also pointed out to them that he had been peacefully teaching in the Temple Courts for days on end, and no one came to arrest him them. Jesus was unarmed while teaching, just as he was in Gethsemane, yet the mob chose to violently arrest him at night. It shows the state of their minds and hearts, that they actually believed that Jesus was a rebel and an outlaw. 

Of course, the answer to Jesus' question is: "No!" He had not been leading a rebellion against the Roman authorities, nor a rebellion against the religious leaders. Jesus had definitely come to reveal the truth of his Father's kingdom and to invite everyone to turn back to God. This was seen as being subversive and this agitated the people.  

Thought. Jesus was not leading an armed rebellion, but he was calling for a Revolution. This revolution was for love, peace and grace to change our hearts and the world around us.

Living in grace

D3LM3

Hard hearted - Lent reflections with Ezekiel

When Ezekiel received his call from God (Ezekiel 2), it was backed up with some clear instruction and very strong advice. God knew that his people had become very rebellious (the term 'rebellion' is mentioned 6 times), and that they were a "stubborn and hard-hearted people", but he still wanted them to hear the message.

I find it interesting that God said to Ezekiel - "You must give them my messages whether they listen or not" (v.7). Despite his deep frustration, God still wanted to give them a chance. It shows me the extent of his love for the people, and ultimately for us. Even if we don't listen to God today, he loves us enough to keep sending messages to us. It is God's longing that we would turn to him and be restored. 

Paul presents a question for us to think about:

"Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?" - Romans 2:4

Prayer focus:
Lord teach me to listen to your voice and not to harden my heart. Thank you for your patience with me - may your kindness change my heart, so that I may glorify you. Amen. 

Living in Grace
D3LM3

The Rebel

Have you ever considered yourself a 'Rebel?' Perhaps you have had moments when you have drifted away from the love of God, but would you call yourself a Rebel? The simple understanding of a Rebel is someone who "rises in opposition to a another person or a leader."

In his book Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis speaks about this idea of a rebel:

"Fallen man (and woman) is not simply an imperfect creature who needs improvement; he is a rebel who must lay down his arms."

In coming to Jesus, we must acknowledge the authority and leadership of God. We can't claim to be part of God's family and yet rise up in rebellion against his ways.

Hebrews 3:8 - "do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness."

Reflection: Lord, teach me to be obedient to your commands.

Living in Grace
D3LM3