Go with God

He said to them, “Then give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”                                                                                              Luke 20.25

By this statement I see Jesus make a clear delineation between faith and following God, against the requirements of the state.

There may be times when allegiance to one or the other is clear and easy to pursue. But there may be times when conflict arises between the two. What, then, might the action be?

I think Luke was aware of this possibility. Maybe it even arose for him. In another of his writings he gives a clear answer: but Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” (Acts 5.29)

This could pose quite a dilemma for the believer, but the way forward need not be hidden or confusing.

God’s Word assures me that He is always there for me, He will never leave me nor forsake me. I have had enough experience of God’s presence and leading. I have sought Him in circumstances, and been guided by Him. I know that I can turn to Him in any trying situation and seek His aid. And I know that He will lead me, and accompany me.

I recall Stephen’s ordeal where the punishment he receives at human hands came nowhere near the sweet experience of God’s participation with him.

I don’t know if I will ever be tested or tried in this way. I pray that, if I am, I will follow the examples of some of the saints who have already passed this way, and look to God. And then go with God!

Mighty God,

Strengthen me in any testing. Let me remember always that You are there for me, and that You are truly for me. Thank You. I choose to go with You. Hallelujah!          Amen.

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Sharing

When the season came, he sent a slave to the tenants in order that they might give him his share of the produce of the vineyard; but the tenants beat him and sent him away empty handed.                                                                                                                          Luke 20.10

From this particular reading of the parable of the wicked tenants what speaks strongly to me is the aspect of sharing.

The owner was more than willing for the tenants to benefit from his vineyard. But the tenants were selfish and greedy. They wanted the full inheritance for themselves. This did not work in the fictional setting of the vineyard, nor will it work in the reality of the Kingdom of God.

God is clear in desiring no one to perish. He wants each one to experience eternal life. The price is simple repentance and acceptance of God’s way – something the vineyard tenants were unable to do.

But there are other parallels with the wicked tenants who wanted the vineyard all to themselves. There are, sadly, some in the church who exhibit a ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude to needy brothers and sisters, seeing them and, God forbid, judging them unworthy.

I pray for the needy that I’ve just identified, but I also pray for those who dare to judge them. I see these latter as, indeed, as much if not more, needy. For perhaps their fate may be similar to that of the wicked tenants – destruction!

I say again, God wants all to share in the good news and live in eternal life. May I do all that I am able to facilitate this.

Loving God,

I cry out for those who are in real need of Jesus and the pardon, release and blessing that He brings. I pray also for those who would hinder the good news being made freely available to all. Your story, Lord, is one of love. May we, all of us, grow in love and reach out to each other in mercy and grace. Come, Lord Jesus, refresh our ways. We need You.       Amen.