The heart of the matter

Scripture:  Matthew 5:13–26

 

Observation:  Jesus always took things deeper in his teachings.  He showed us that the law wasn’t an outward expression or a checklist to be followed, but He always went to the heart of the matter.  It’s not enough that you do not outwardly kill/murder He says and then He goes straight to the heart, but what about that anger you are feeling?

 

Not only that, but He takes it even deeper.  If your brother has something against you don’t wait for them to come and talk to you.  Go to them FIRST.  You initiate the reconciliation. 

 

In addition Jesus compared us to salt and light.  Salt preserves things or keeps things from going bad.  We, as salt, can have a powerful effect on this world and keep it from going totally bad if we are living the way He asks us to live.

 

You are also light.  A true disciple is light and light cannot be hidden.

 

Application:  Jesus described some responsibilities of those who follow him.  He wasn’t speaking to those who have no faith in Him, but to us who believe.  We have the greater responsibility.  How does the metaphor of being salt and/or light make you understand further the way you are to live your life today?  In verses 17-20 Yeshua spoke about the Law.  He said His teaching agreed with and supported the Law.  He said He did not destroy the Law.  How do you understand this teaching in our lives today?

 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, thank You for Yeshua who came and lived as we live and taught us how to follow You.  You say that the Law is written on our hearts.  Give us wisdom and discernment for how we are to keep that Law, not just by the letter, but as Yeshua described in our hearts.  Rid our hearts of everything that does not please You.  Help us to be the salt and light that You call us to be and to bring reconciliation into our relationships and draw all people to You.  Through Christ and the Holy Spirit who enables us to follow You I pray.  Amen & Amen.