(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Children in Jesus’ day started their education at around the same age children do in our culture today. The primary education for children between the ages and 5 and 12 was to memorize the Torah – the first five books of the Old Testament. A select few who showed tremendous aptitude would continue their education, while those who didn’t make the cut would begin apprenticing with a parent or other family member in the family business. Those whose education continued would go on to memorize the entirety of the Old Testament.
But then there was more. Only a very, very, select few would be invited to follow a Rabbi. The selection process would’ve been similar to Ivy League schools today. The standards for this level of ongoing education was very high.
Then enters Jesus. He invites Peter, a fisherman, to follow Him. And Matthew, a Tax Collector, to follow Him. Those who “didn’t make the cut” for all other Rabbi’s, Jesus saw something remarkable in them. He has invited you to follow Him as well. And He continues to cry out, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
READING & PRAYERS:
2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-18, JOHN 14:6 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What are some areas of life in which you find it easy to follow the Way? What are some areas in which you find it difficult to follow the Way?
PRACTICE: Choose just one of the areas in which you find it difficult to follow Jesus. Surrender this area over to Him every day, perhaps several times a day. Continue this practice daily until you discover that Jesus truly is inviting you in a different way of life; a way of life that actually works.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, despite the many times I feel like I’m unworthy of Your love, You have invited me to be Your disciple; to follow You in all things. I’m grateful for this invitation, and I do desire to follow You in order to continually recognize that You are leading me into a way of life that actually works — a way of life that rests in You and Your finished work, and not a way of life that requires my own strength. Thank You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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