Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Matthew 8:1-13.
“When Jesus came down from the mountainside….” Yes, there always comes that time to come down from the mountain and deal with the opportunities and challenges of everyday life. As soon as Jesus came down, he encountered someone in need. Now according to Law, or at least the generally accepted interpretations of it in that day, he was not supposed to touch this leper. To do so would make him unclean. But “Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man.” He crossed a line of that day in order to bring healing to someone in need.
Shortly after that, another situation confronted him, one which again would cause controversy among some of the teachers and leaders of God’s people at that time. A centurion approached Jesus, seeking help for his paralyzed servant. A centurion was a Roman army commander, overseeing a hundred men. The Roman army was the enemy. Many people agreed with the teaching that said “Don’t help him. Don’t help any of them. They are evil people! We may have to tolerate them, but we certainly don’t have to help them!” However, on the mountain, Jesus had just taught his followers to “love your enemies…” Here, he is given an opportunity to put that teaching into practice. And he did. He even complimented this guy on his faith, encouraging those around to follow his example.
Love your enemies. It’s one thing to believe that and to agree that we need to do that. It’s another thing to actually do it.
Personal Worship Option:
What enemy is God challenging you to love today? Join us in worship as we all worship God together and continue to learn how to live this way of Christ together.
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