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.)
As we think further of living quiet and peaceable lives (I Timothy 2:2-3), we recognize that our necessary relationship with Jesus Christ is the only beginning point. We also know that our relationships with others contribute to the achieving of God’s great goal of peace and quiet in our lives. Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) were sisters, and there was at least temporary tension in their household. Family dynamics can be challenging (and can turn into family dynamite). For years after their interaction with Jesus, Martha could have sniffed, “Well, someone has to do the work,” and Mary could have said, “I’d like to help, but I’m doing something better.” The evidence, though, is that both behaved themselves (John 11:1-44). Later, we also find Mary anointing Jesus before His death (Matthew 14:1-9; John 12:1-7) and Martha serving as hostess. Do you have a HMFM (high-maintenance family member)? Romans 12:18 states “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” We must not escalate situations (the example of Jesus with Martha and Mary is instructive). We may have to disengage from some relationships, especially if they are abusive or destructive. Other relationships may require that we either draw closer or back away a bit. How do we know which way to choose? One key is to evaluate if the relationship promotes quiet and peaceable lives. If so, we are to pursue closeness. If not, we must be wary. Remember, it is Jesus Who wants us to lead quiet and peaceable lives.