Reflections from April 9, 2010

We end this week with The Sermon on the Mount. This is one of the most famous sermons giving by Jesus. The sermon is recorded in the Bible through Matthew Chapter 7.

Throughout the sermon, Jesus described the lifestyle of the kingdom, and when He was finished, Matthew says that the people were astonished at His teaching; that is they were literally overwhelmed or stunned. They had come to hear a new teacher, but Jesus exceeded their expectations. His voice had an unusual but unmistakable ring of authority. And no wonder...they were listening to the King.

Today we read in Matthew 5:14-16, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven."

This is another example of Jesus' teachings fitting perfectly into today's society. First century listeners of Jesus had no way of knowing the importance of light and its availability in today's culture. We use it to illuminate and to communicate. Thus, Jesus wants His followers to shine, to be visible and attractive, not to bring attention to ourselves, but to bring people to God.

We have many ways of doing that; at work, at school, through recreation, and by being a light in our every day life. In all aspects, if we shine the light of God through us, we serve as a witness of the glory of Jesus to people today.

Proverbs 9:12 tells us, "If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, And if you scoff, you will bear it alone."

At the end of it all, the character of wisdom helps only ourselves. It may prove to be useful and resourceful to family, neighbors and friends; but the main beneficiary is ourself. And likewise for scorn; if we scoff and the teachings of God, we are the only one that will bear the judgement of God. No one else will be judged for our actions. We will bear it alone.

In Proverbs 10:1 we read, "A wise son makes a glad father, But a foolish son is the grief of his mother."

Parents are commanded to teach their children to have productive lives and have understanding of God. Children are commanded to obey their parents. Just as we can have a major impact on our childrens lives, they too can make a difference in ours. One example is for grown children to show respect and affirmation for parents. This should be done even if the parent was negligent in fulfilling biblical responsibilities as all of us are expected to show respect to elders; especially our parents.

Blessings to all