My kids and I love to go and watch my husband's football practice. One of the things I have noticed is when my husband says something once you listen, but if he says it twice you better make sure and do it. Much like when I am at home...when I something once it is important, but if I have to say it twice, the momma train is coming choo choo!
Therefore, if Jesus, the son of God, says something once it is important, but if He says it twice, you might want to put down all other things listen, take notes, and put what he says into action. Well, I was reading in Matthew at the different times Jesus was dealing with the Pharisees. In Matthew 9:13 Jesus is talking to the Pharisees after they asked the question, "why does your teacher eat with such scum?" Jesus replies with, "Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy not offer sacrifices.'
Then when the Pharisees questioned Jesus about picking grain on the Sabbath. He answered with, ..."But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.'
Ok Jesus you have my attention: "show mercy not offer sacrifices." As I was trying to figure out what that scripture meant I was reminded of something Jesus said in the sermon on the mount in Matthew 5-7. "Not everyone who calls out to me, 'Lord! Lord! will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgement day many will say to me, 'Lord! we prophesied in your name and performed many miracles in your name.' But I will reply 'I never knew you..."
Oh the things we do in His name. We do so many things in His name aka offer sacrifices...
-In His name I told that group of people they were going to hell because they were gay
-In His name I have never touched a drop of alcohol and condemn those who do
-In His name I told someone exactly what I thought of them
-In His name I picketed in front of the abortion clinic yelling at the girls going in
-In His name I voted Republican all across the board
-In His name I told someone they needed to get their act together before going to church
We do a lot of things IN HIS NAME....but doesn't reflect HIS HEART. We can speak truth, but Jesus says he came to speak Grace and Truth (John 1:14). You can speak truth but if you do not show love...it is worth nothing. You can stand up for the things of Christ but if you do not show love...it is worth nothing. You can offer sacrifices but if you do not show mercy and love...it is worth nothing.
Alright Jesus you have my attention, but knowing me...you may have to say it again:)
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