Closer Day By Day

As we read these final chapters about the ministry of our Lord, there are several things that we can ponder as we pass each day of our lives. For many of us who have been in the church for a long time, all the more we must keep a constant check on our relationship with the Lord.

Bible Passage: Luke 22

Have We Taken Our Eyes Off Jesus?

Living in a modern and trendy society, can we not be tempted by its attractions? Are we keeping our human pride in check constantly in a world where fame and wealth means a great deal to people?

The 12 disciples of Jesus, they had been following the Lord during His ministry of about 3 years, and they must have had received plenty of first-hand teachings from the Lord regarding many things. The blessing of receiving the Truth was given to them, but how did the disciples fare in practicing the Truth?

In this chapter, we can see the following instances of how the disciples fared.

1. Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 disciples chosen by the Lord, took his eyes off Jesus totally and lusted after the thirty pieces of silver. (Lk. 22: 4 - 6)
2. The disciples “looked away” from Jesus’ passion to suffer for the world’s sins, and disputed who would be called greatest among the disciples. (Lk. 22: 24)
3. Peter, James and John “closed” their eyes to sleep even after Jesus told them to watch and pray. (Lk. 22: 45 - 46)
4. Peter forcefully turned his eyes away from Jesus and denied Him 3 times. (Lk. 22: 54 - 60)

Have We Let Jesus Down?

Do any of the above mentioned instances recorded in this chapter prick your conscience?

1. Have we ever compromised Sabbath services or even divine works which we can be involved in for pursuing our dreams to be top in our academic results; or working extra hard to earn more money just to fulfill our unquenchable desire for luxury goods?
2. Have we ever intended to show off our talents or skills while doing divine works, or have we ever wanted to be called “the best” in church?
3. Have we ever turned a blind eye towards the warnings and commandments of the Lord written in the Bible?
4. Have we ever shy away or fear the idea of being a witness of the Lord to the people of the world?

God came in the flesh to be near His people, He came to set the people of the world free from the bondage of Satan. He came to die for you and for me so that you and I would not be condemned to eternal sufferings but have everlasting life in the Kingdom of God!

Our Almighty God loves us so much that He is willing to suffer for us; this goes to show how much He treasures our souls.

So let us focus intently on Jesus, be in tuned with His love and let His love not only lift us up, but also the people whom we can reach out for Christ.