Week of July 23, 2023
On the Margin
Because “God so loved the world,” Jesus’ ministry reached not only the religious insiders of his day but also those who were on the margin … those who the insiders often wanted little to do with. In ancient Jewish society, the marginalized included the idolatrous Gentiles, unfaithful Samaritans, the poor, those dealing with disease, immoral public sinners, and any Jews who were too cozy with the Romans. Jesus sought out such marginalized people knowing that God’s banquet of grace was also for them.
Monday | Luke 14:1-6
Dropsy (today usually called edema) was a very visible illness resulting in swelling of the extremities. Often those suffering from such difficulties were blamed as sinners who God was punishing. But Jesus saw the man as a victim needing healing. What does this show regarding the heart of Jesus? What has this motivated Christians to do over the centuries? What in particular was Jesus trying to teach the religious leaders on this Sabbath day?
Tuesday | Luke 14:7-11
People have always sought status … whether by way of seats of honor at a meal or in our day, by the car they drive or the home they live in. Instead of seeking status, Jesus would have us pursue humility. How do you define humility? Would you agree with Richard Foster in his recent book that humility is a “vanishing virtue” in modern society? What keeps us from embracing humility as a Christ-like virtue? Why does following Jesus lead to humility?
Wednesday | Luke 14:12-24
After pointing out that our generosity should go beyond those who can reciprocate, Jesus teaches that God’s generosity reaches those on the margins of society. What does it mean to share in God’s banquet in this life? What excuses do we make for not fully celebrating God’s abundance? Who might you invite to God’s banquet?
Thursday | Matthew 8:5-13
Even as Jesus focused his ministry on his fellow Jews, his compassion extended also to Gentiles, including a normally despised Roman soldier. What led Jesus to be amazed by the centurion’s faith? What would inspire you to pray confidently, “Jesus, just say the word …”? What do you think Jesus meant by saying that people would come from the east and west and take their place at the kingdom feast? Why is it such amazingly good news that even people on the margin are welcomed?
Friday | Acts 11:1-18
The Holy Spirit showed Peter and the early church that the Gospel was not just for them as Jews but also for Gentiles like the Roman centurion Cornelius. What was God seeking to communicate through Peter’s vision? What does this suggest to us who might regard certain people as too “unclean” for God? Who is that who transforms people from “unclean” to “clean,” bringing them from death to life? (see v.15) How did this change the early church?
