Luke : Day 32

Read Luke 18:9 – 19:10

In science lessons, we were taught to ‘compare and contrast’. For example, if we were given two unknown materials to analyse, we had to look for similarities between them, and then differences between them. This method of comparing and contrasting can come in useful when reading the Bible!

For example, this section began with Jesus describing two men. Both were praying – but there was a big contrast between the two. The Pharisee was very proud of himself. He was self-righteous, thinking God was very impressed by his religious efforts. The other, a tax collector, was ashamed of his wrong-doing, and very humble. He simply asked God for mercy. Jesus said this second man was justified – made right with God.

Then, compare those two men with the children in the next story. Jesus said that a person must receive the kingdom of God like a child (verse 17). Which of the two men had child-like faith? It was the tax collector. He believed that God would have mercy on him. Like a child asking their parent for help, he trusted that God would help him.

Next, we get a rich man. Money is not a problem in itself, but Jesus knew that this man loved his wealth – so much that he would choose it over following Jesus. Those who are well-off and comfortable often find it harder to surrender their lives to Christ. But all things are possible with God! (verse 27).

Finally, let’s think about Zacchaeus. He also was a wealthy man – would his wealth prevent him from repenting? No: like the tax collector who asked God for mercy, this tax collector also responded to Jesus in child-like faith, and was prepared to surrender his whole life to Jesus.

Which of these characters would you compare yourself to?

“Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Luke 18:17