Jaw-dropping Jewels about Jesus
Rarely does Jesus, God the Son, do exactly what we expect of Him. It seems odd that He so frequently surprises us, given that He never changes. Hebrews 13:8 makes this absolute statement: “Jesus the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Still, though He is blessedly consistent in His goodness, Jesus does unforeseen things. Even when He does what is expected, He does not always do it in the way that we anticipate. Let us join with Jesus on a jaw-dropping journey. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Jesus is a gracious host, extending an open invitation to all. In Isaiah 55:1, we find this call: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine [non-alcoholic fruit juice] and milk without money and without price.” This seems to be an odd offer, for buying without money does not seem possible. This paradox (what G. K. Chesterton defined as “truth standing on its head to get attention”) is explained in verses 2-3: “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness [good things]. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” The key is the invitation “come unto Me,” which moves us beyond this physical life to spiritual life (note “soul” and “everlasting”). We know that we cannot purchase eternal life, but we can receive this everlasting life. That is the offer of God; it is a gift, a most gracious and glorious gift. May we heed this invitation of Jesus and enter into this “everlasting covenant.” Let us be satisfied with this new life that He gives.