I love erasers. I love what they can do. I love that with one swipe of the backside of my pencil, I can remove my misspelled word and replace it with another misspelled that looks a little more like it’s not – misspelled. It makes me feel powerful – like failure isn’t an option, because I can just… erase it.
But seriously, aren’t you thankful for erasers?
In Matthew 5, Jesus takes his place in front of the multitudes. They have come from miles around to hear what He will say. He opens his mouth, they lean in and I wonder sometimes if all creation silenced and leaned in, too. As He spoke, every word, phrase, and tone was chosen purposefully.
They were looking for a leader – a warrior who would arise to lead an army against Rome. They had been taught wrong by Pharisees who used the Holy Scriptures to fill their pockets and control the masses. Law upon law was written on their hearts, but love was not found there. Their view of the Father was distorted and vague. So, He knew He couldn’t start writing on their hearts the truths they needed to hear until He first erased all of the things they had learned wrong.
Taking a deep breath, He begins, “You have heard it said…” This is how you have been taught to love, been taught to view marriage, been taught to handle your anger and deal with your difference. This is how you have learned to treat others. This is the definition of Kingdom Living that you have been given.
And, then with the swiftness of a chalkboard eraser, He removes it.
And then continues, “But I say…”
These three words lead into some of the most practical and profound scriptures I have ever read. They are the beginnings of His definition of Kingdom Living – a definition that flipped everything they knew upside down. Or should I say right-side up?
It was completely different than what they had been taught, but it was the way of the Kingdom and, if they would walk in it, they would find – it was the way to abundant life.
Over the course of the next few weeks, we are going to be digging into Matthew 5, 6, & 7 together. As we begin, I want to encourage to open your journal and sit with the Lord, asking Him this one simple question:
God, what have I learned wrong?
This is where we must begin. With the simplicity of acknowledging, “God, we admit we can get it wrong. And if we have, show us where.” It begins with humble repentance and honest conversation with a Father who loves us more than we can ever fully grasp. This is a shame-free space. This is a hope-filled place. When He convicts our hearts of areas we may be missing it – it is always because changing this area of our life will lead to a more abundant life.
God, reveal to me what I have learned wrong. Wipe the slate clean. Define Kingdom Living for me and show me what it looks like to walk in it. I’m ready. Change me. Transform me. Teach me. I’m yours. Amen.
Comments