Dear Family,
Do you remember bedtime stories from your childhood? I would have to go back to the “dark ages” to recall those that my parents, grandparents, and my two older sisters read or told to me. I am quite sure that you remember stories better than a sermon on a particular passage. That is one of the reasons the Lord Jesus taught in parables because frankly they are easier to remember!
We begin this Sunday a series on the parables from the lips of the Lord Jesus and especially focusing on the 18 parables that are unique to the gospel according to Luke.
The parables are more than simple stories; they are rich, multi-layered teachings that reveal the heart of God and His kingdom. Jesus used these parables to communicate deep spiritual truths in a way that is relatable and accessible. Our Lord invites us into a deeper understanding of our Triune God, His will, His character, His kingdom and how we are to live as disciples of Rabbi Jesus in our upside-down fallen world.
Studying the parables helps us see the world through God’s eyes. They challenge our perspectives, correct our misconceptions, and guide us toward righteous living. Each parable contains timeless principles that are as relevant today as they were when Jesus first spoke them, whether it was from a boat or on a Galilean hillside. Whether it is learning about the value of forgiveness, the importance of faith, or the call to love our neighbors, the parables offer us practical wisdom that we can apply directly to our daily lives.
Moreover, applying the truths of the parables is essential for our spiritual growth. When we internalize Christ’s teachings and live them out, we begin to reflect more of Christ’s character in our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
The parables of Jesus are intriguing and often very mysterious. Remember this passage, “As soon as He was alone, His followers, along with the twelve, began asking Him about the parables. And He was saying to them, “To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God, but those who are outside get everything in parables, that while seeing, they may see and not perceive, and while hearing, they may hear and not understand, otherwise they might return and be forgiven.”
For Jesus’ sake,
Glen
P.S. (Invite a friend and why not make it two!)