It's too much to put on here, but read Matthew 8:28 through all of Chapter 9 today. Below is the link for you to copy and paste if you want to read it online:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%208:28-Matthew%209&version=NIV1984
Last week, the focus was that Jesus is not just our "fixer" but that He desires so much more than to just fix our problems -- He wants to fix our hearts. But, today, I also want us to remember that He also has more compassion and care for people than any of us could imagine or emulate.
As I read through the end of chapter 8 through all of chapter 9 this morning, I could not help but notice how much Jesus physically heals people! At the end of chapter 8, He casts demons out of two men, and notice how even the demons submit to the authority of Jesus, knowing that He will may torture them now, but that He will definitely be torturing them later "at the appointed time." How incredible! Even the demons know who He is, and they tremble.
But then most of chapter 9, includes stories where Jesus heals. He heals a paralytic, a dead girl, a sick woman, two blind men, a demon-possessed mute man, tax collectors, and other "sinners". Yet what I notice about ALL of these stories, is the order in which He heals them. Take a look. What happens first?
In each of these cases, Jesus is more concerned about the condition of their heart and their faith FIRST! If you're looking at the NIV translation, look for phrases like, "Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven," "Take heart, daughter, your faith has healed you," and, "According to your faith, it will be done to you."
It's not that Jesus doesn't heal people, remove our burdens, and "fix" things in our lives occasionally, but let's be sure that we understand His priority. Our hearts. He is more concerned about the condition of our hearts than the condition of our physical health, safety, or security.
Yet, as I read these passages and stories, it makes me want to just go walk down the road with Him for a little bit. I want to give Him a hug, yet while standing a few yards away because I'd be a little unsure about the incredible amount of power He has! Are we to fear God? I'd say so! Just look at the amount of power and authority He has in regard to demons, sickness, and even death! All while also observing the compassion, care, and love He has for all people.
May we not see these stories today as just stories, but may we look closer and grasp the identity of God: His awesome power and His omnipotence and His incredible love and mercy for those who believe.
"Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other." Deuteronomy 4:39
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