Day 299 – Luke 12-13

Talking Points

• Jesus revealed an astounding truth — God deeply cares for you! Yes, He created you in great power and unimaginable wisdom. You actually are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). Yes, He knows you. He really does see your coming-ins and going-outs. But, most remarkably, He honestly does care for you. If God does not forget the simple sparrow, how much more does He remember us? Jesus says, “You are far more valuable than many sparrows” (Luke 12:7). What a God that He would care for us!
• Jesus did not hide the fact that the good news divides. Families, friends, even the closest of relationships can be strained by the acceptance or rejection of the gospel. In making this declaration, Jesus began to prepare His followers to be questioned, ridiculed, and mistreated, all for the sake of following Him. What a strange paradox — the same gospel that brings peace, divides as well.
• Wise believers will order their lives in view of the reality of eternity. Temporary pleasures are just that — temporary. Things that will pass away with the strokes of time will prove to be insignificant endeavors and poor places to invest our efforts. In a world with endless pursuits, Jesus taught us to only chase what really matters.

Thoughts

Oh, the silly things we allow our hearts to treasure! We want all the comforts of this world. We clamor for them. Working and striving, we want to be the envy of this world, pleased if everyone would talk of our achievements. “Are those new? I love that shirt! Do you vacation there? We love it there!” Our hearts swell, beating a little faster. Oh, what treasures.

Deep down, we all know houses, cars, clothes, and all the finest things are just that — things. Yet, we stew and we strain, always reaching for more. Our hearts are never satisfied, never content.

Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34). Here’s what He was trying to explain: With misplaced treasures, we end up with misplaced hearts. Jesus loves us. We are a treasure to Him, proven at Calvary. He is kind and considerate of us. And, He wants our hearts. How sad for Him to watch those He loves run after the things that ultimately break our hearts, all while He holds in Himself everything that would mend them and make them whole.

Today, as we read His Word and learn of His heart, may He grow as our treasure and may He have our hearts.