January 23, 2019
Luke 5:33-39 The Message (MSG)
For some odd reason our lesson today reminds me of pigs in a blanket (baked mini crescent hotdogs). lol! Go ahead and laugh; it certainly does not sound very spiritual, but it is a pretty good analogy of a spiritual condition called pride. In our passage today, the religious leaders have basically wrapped themselves in self-righteous respectability; much like the hotdog being wrapped and covered by the crescent roll.
These religious leaders struggle against sin in their lives just like everyone else, but they prance around like they are spiritually flawless; wrapped in a form of godliness void of humble gratitude and love. They need a Savior, too. These leaders emphasize ridged religious rules and exercise judgment; they actually question the spiritual integrity of Jesus and his disciples. In fact, these leaders abhor the fact that Jesus associates with sinners and attends celebrations with them. He never ever agrees with people’s sin, but he gathers with them in order to influence their understanding of how to please God through salvation. Think about it; during Christ’s ministry the sinners enjoyed their time with the King of Glory and many of the religious leaders missed the party.
We have to allow the Spirit of Christ to change our thinking and to renew how we see salvation and the work of redemption. If you know Jesus, you are wrapped in his righteousness; it is a gift from God. Please do not take credit for it, because it is all Christ’s doing. He deserves the glory. Our job is to cooperate and allow the Spirit to convict us and lead us away from all sin and unrighteous living, so our lives can bring glory to God.
Luke 5:33-39
33 They asked him, “John’s disciples are well-known for keeping fasts and saying prayers. Also the Pharisees. But you seem to spend most of your time at parties. Why?”
34-35 Jesus said, “When you’re celebrating a wedding, you don’t skimp on the cake and wine. You feast. Later you may need to pull in your belt, but this isn’t the time. As long as the bride and groom are with you, you have a good time. When the groom is gone, the fasting can begin. No one throws cold water on a friendly bonfire. This is Kingdom Come!
36-39 “No one cuts up a fine silk scarf to patch old work clothes; you want fabrics that match. And you don’t put wine in old, cracked bottles; you get strong, clean bottles for your fresh vintage wine. And no one who has ever tasted fine aged wine prefers unaged wine.”
Prayer: Lord, help me to stay in a humble place in my walk with you as you teach me about love. I was never created to judge the sin of others while I am on earth; that is the work of your Word and Holy Spirit. However, help me to share the Word as you guide and direct me, so others can learn and grow in your righteousness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.