Monday Devo

Read Luke 11:37-44. I love the example of Jesus. The Pharisees probably never realized this but based on this passage they are the ones who are truly evil and sick. Every time they accuse Jesus of hanging out with the worse of sinners He could have honestly responded, "yes I do - when I hang out with you." V. 37 Jesus went to their invitation. We can't skip verse 37. Many have looked at this passage and made good application how the churches who fight over the color of their carpet are like these Pharisees. But do we notice that Jesus loved them intensely. He spent much time with them and to my knowledge never turned down an invitation to be with them. Praying, preaching, hoping they would come to truly see God.

There is a mind that waters things down so much they loose their meaning. There is also a mind that gets lost in the details and can not prioritize them. The Pharisees were the latter. They had created laws not just that you should wash before eating but exactly when and how. Details such as which way your poured the water - from the wrist down, must be followed to avoid sinning! Jesus mentions "rue" in verse 42 because the law didn't even require them to tithe rue. 

The Pharisees not only got lost in the details they were very committed to the external. They loved to be seated in impressive places that would tell those looking on they were important. They loved to pray to be seen, fast to be noticed and give to get attention. They used worship to elevate self instead of God. This always means the same thing - they worshiped themselves - not God.

questions

1) what details do we sometimes prioritize over love and justice in the church today? In your personal life?

2) ask yourself if there is anyway in which you have used religion to advance self? For example I know Christians who have used God's principles to run their finances successfully or the families, but not out of love for God - out of love for self advancement.

3) (a real thinker!!!) Why do you think Jesus added verse 41. How would that clean things out?

prayer

Father we repent of putting things over love and justice. We repent of our divisions and separating from others. Help us to love deeply from the heart, give generously from our heart and to exalt you in everything we do this day.