February 13, 2021

Advice or Wisdom?

February 12, 2021

DAILY READING

Matthew 7:1-12

Psalm 119:33-40

FIELD NOTES

A while back, Dr. Chappell challenged all of us at Brentwood UMC to see the world “Inside-Out” through the discipline of living the Sermon on the Mount. These were challenging words to live by, and if you’re like most of us, some days are certainly better than others.

Jesus’s teachings from the Sermon on the Mount continue to challenge and inspire us because they are more than just little tidbits of wisdom; they are more than a fortune cookie expression of faith. These are words and teachings that radically change our entire perspectives.

My gut response to being pushed is to push back; yet, Jesus challenges my power perspective and calls for me to examine the measures I give. My inclination is to judge others, but Jesus challenges me to always recognize there is a log in my own eye clouding my vision. These are not just uplifting words, these are ethical challenges that, when taken seriously, actually change the world!

I admit that, sometimes, I treat Jesus as just another dispenser of good advice and wisdom. In fact, Jesus is so much more than this. He is the way and the truth and the life. This doesn’t always make me feel better because sometimes Jesus asks me to do hard things like treat others as I would want to be treated. But when I actually listen and take Jesus seriously, he does change me, and that’s something I need more than just a fleeting good feeling.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

  • Do I treat Jesus as just another peddler of good advice, or do I treat him as Lord and Savior? What makes the difference?
  • How serious am I ready to take the Sermon on the Mount?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

  • How do you want to be treated today? Are you ready to treat someone else that way?

PRAYER GUIDE

Loving and gracious God, you challenge us with these words from your Son, Jesus, and we admit that we often fail to take them seriously. Hold us accountable for loving you and for loving others this day. Remind us that our lives must orient towards love. In Jesus name, Amen.