“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind,
which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away.” Matthew 13:47-48
I read a new’s report about a party at a New Orleans municipal pool to celebrate the first summer in memory without a drowning. In honor of the occasion, 200 people gathered, including 100 certified lifeguards. As the party was breaking up and the four lifeguards on duty began to clear the pool, they found a fully dressed body in the deep end. They tried to revive Jerome Moody, 31, but it was too late. He had drowned surrounded by lifeguards celebrating their successful season.
Jesus, here in Chapter 13 is giving us insight and understanding into what His program will be on this earth from His death, burial and resurrection until His Second Coming. He is teaching us what will happen in His Kingdom.
God started with the Jewish people. He gave them a land at the center of planet earth… if you would, in the belly button of the world. His intention was for Israel to be a light and shine His love and truth throughout humanity. Paul spoke of this in Ephesians 4:15 “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head Christ.”
What did Israel do? Did they shine? Did they have a heart for the lost Gentile world around them?
On the contrary, rather than loving outwardly they turned inwardly for protection and isolation. They created more rules and regulations. They added rules and religious regulations to the point that if they brushed up against a Gentile they would be considered UNCLEAN. Where does God say in His word any of these things? Actually, His heart and His Word pointed them toward reaching out and touching the lost Gentile nations with His love.
What about you? Have you turned inwardly? Are you shining God’s love? Is there a fire of God within you that you’re allowing God to use to warm others with in this cold world? Will you reach out to those around you and be Jesus’ hands and feet and allow him to make you an Eternal Life Guard. In Jesus’ name.
By His Spirit,
Pastor Bill