Why Should God Let You Into Heaven?
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The Question That Stops Me in My Tracks
It’s one of the oldest questions in evangelism, and it still makes me pause every time I hear it: If God were to ask you why He should let you into Heaven, what would you say? I’d love to tell you my answer comes out smooth and confident. But if I’m honest, my first instinct is to reach for my résumé.
My Heavenly Résumé
I could tell Him about the books, more than I can easily count now. Stories written late at night and early in the morning, many of them about His faithfulness. I could tell Him about the six children John and I brought home from foster care. Siblings who needed a family and found one around our crowded dinner table.
I could mention the homeschool lessons, the coaching calls, the mission trips to the Czech Republic, and the churches being planted there. I could list the women I’ve prayed with and the readers who wrote to say a story pointed them back to Jesus.
It’s a good list. I’m grateful for every line of it. But if I started down that list, I’d be answering the wrong question.
Why My Résumé Won’t Get Me In
None of those things is my ticket through the gate to Heaven. On my best days, my good works are offerings of gratitude. On my worst days, they’re tangled up with pride, exhaustion, and the quiet hope that if I just do enough, I’ll finally be enough.
I’ve spent years telling other women that running on empty isn’t their calling. I’ve had to learn that lesson myself, over and over. Grace can’t be earned. The moment I try to earn it, it stops being grace.
Paul said it plainly: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8–9, NIV).
A gift you work for isn’t a gift. It’s a paycheck. And I don’t want to stand before a holy God at the gates of Heaven and ask for what I’ve earned.
My Real Answer
So here’s what I would say:
“Lord, You shouldn’t let me in because of anything I’ve done. I’m asking to come in because of what Jesus did. He lived the life I couldn’t live and died the death I deserved. I trusted Him with my sin, my story, and my future. You promised that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. I’m holding on to Your promise, not my performance.”
That’s it. That’s my whole case.
Not Tricia the author. Not Tricia the coach, the mom, or the ministry leader. Just Tricia the sinner, saved by grace, standing behind the cross.
Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV). Whoever believes. Not whoever performs. Not whoever finishes the to-do list.
The Freedom of a Settled Answer
Honestly, this is the most freeing thing I know.
I don’t have to wonder whether I’ve written enough, served enough, or loved my kids well enough. I don’t have to measure my standing with God by how many commitments I kept this week. My entrance was settled the day I said yes to Jesus.
That changes how I live today. Everything I do now isn’t me working my way toward Heaven. It’s me living out of gratitude for a door that’s already been opened.
The books, the kids, the coaching, the ministry—they still matter. But they’ve moved from the column marked “earning” to the column marked “thank You.” And that’s a much lighter load to carry.
What Would You Say?
Now I want to turn the question to you, friend. If God asked you tonight why He should let you into Heaven, what would you say?
If your answer starts with your own résumé, I understand. Mine does too, every time. But you can set it down. Jesus has already done what you could never do. All He asks is that you trust Him.
If you’ve never said yes to Him, you can do it right now, right where you are. Simply tell Him you know you can’t earn your way in, that you believe He died and rose again for you, and that you’re placing your trust in Him. Then reach out to a pastor or a Christian friend and tell them. I’d love to hear from you too.
A few questions to sit with this week:
- What’s on my “heavenly résumé” that I’m tempted to lean on?
- Where am I trying to earn what God has already given freely?
- How would my everyday life change if I truly lived from gratitude instead of performance?
He’s not waiting for your list. He’s waiting for your trust.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
October 19
Luke 14:25-35, Luke 15, Luke 16, Luke 17:1-10, John 11:1-37
The Parables of the Lost
In today’s readings from Luke 14-16 and John 11, Jesus emphasizes the cost of following Him, the joy of recovering the lost, and the call to invest in eternal matters. As we continue journeying through the Gospel of Luke, we come across three parables that reveal the heart of God for the lost: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son (also known as the prodigal son).
Each of these parables captures a beautiful truth: when something valuable is lost, there is a persistent search, and when it is found, there is great rejoicing. Jesus shows us that God’s heart is filled with joy when even one sinner repents and returns to Him. The parable of the prodigal son, in particular, tugs at our hearts as we see the extravagant love of a father who runs to welcome his wayward son back home. Though the older brother struggles with bitterness, the father’s response is clear:
"This is a happy day, for your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!" (Luke 15:32)
In contrast, Jesus also warns about the dangers of being lost in a different way—through greed and misplaced priorities. In the Parable of the Shrewd Manager, He highlights the importance of being faithful with what we have and ensuring that our investments are for the Kingdom of God, not for fleeting, worldly gain. He also makes it clear that we cannot serve both God and money.
Then, in John 11, we see the beginnings of a powerful miracle in the story of Lazarus, where Jesus is about to reveal Himself as the resurrection and the life. But before that, we witness the deep compassion and humanity of Jesus as He weeps with those who are mourning. This passage reminds us that while we may feel lost or overwhelmed by the trials of life, Jesus walks with us in our pain and has the power to bring life out of death.
Word of the Day: Lost
Definition: Denoting something that has been taken away or cannot be recovered.
The Joy in Finding the Lost
Throughout these parables, Jesus reveals the deep joy that comes from recovering what was lost. Whether it’s the lost sheep, the lost coin, or the lost son, the consistent theme is that God does not rest until He has found His lost ones. For God, no one is too far gone or too broken to be brought back into His arms. This is a beautiful reminder of the heart of the Gospel. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).
The joy in heaven over one sinner who repents is indescribable. It’s the joy of a shepherd who finds his sheep, of a woman who finds her valuable coin, of a father who embraces his long-lost son. For those of us who have been found by God’s grace, we are called to rejoice with Him and to be part of this ongoing search for the lost. God’s heart is always open, and He wants us to mirror that in our lives.
Is there someone in your life who feels far from God? Someone who needs to know the love and grace that’s been extended to them? Pray for them, love them, and ask God to work through you to show them the way back to the Father’s heart.
The Other Kind of Lost
Sometimes, being lost isn’t about running away physically—it’s about a state of the heart. The older brother in the story of the prodigal son stayed home, worked hard, and did everything right, but he still felt distant from his father’s love. His heart was consumed with comparison, self-righteousness, and bitterness. Though he was physically “home,” his heart was far from the joy and grace that his father freely offered.
This is a warning for those of us who may feel like we’re doing all the right things, yet still feel lost or disconnected from God’s love. It’s a reminder that we can be “home” and still miss out on the celebration. Sometimes, we need to check our own hearts to see if we’re harboring bitterness, resentment, or pride—things that can keep us from experiencing the fullness of God’s grace.
Are you struggling with feelings of resentment or comparison, like the older brother? Ask God to soften your heart and help you experience the joy and freedom that come from knowing His grace.
October 20
John 11:38-57, Luke 17:11-37, 18:1-8
Lessons from Lazarus and the Leper
In today’s readings, we witness two powerful stories that highlight the importance of believing in God’s promises. Jesus performs the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus, showing the power of belief, and later, heals ten lepers, reminding us that faith requires action and gratitude.
In John 11:38-57, we find Jesus standing before Lazarus’s tomb, surrounded by mourners who are in disbelief that anything can be done. Lazarus has been dead for four days. Martha, his sister, voices her concerns about the odor when Jesus asks for the stone to be rolled away. But Jesus replies, reminding her of the promise that if she believes, she will see the glory of God. And in one of the most dramatic moments in Scripture, Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb, and Lazarus walks out, wrapped in his burial clothes, alive once more.
This event led many to believe in Jesus, but it also spurred a plot against Him by the religious leaders. Their hearts, blinded by fear and pride, refused to accept the miracle they had witnessed. They chose to plot against the very source of life and truth standing before them.
In Luke 17:11-37, Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem when He heals ten lepers. These men, outcasts of society due to their disease, cry out to Jesus for mercy. Jesus tells them to show themselves to the priests, as was required by the law, and as they go, they are healed. However, only one, a Samaritan, returns to thank Jesus and worship Him. Jesus praises this man for his faith and gratitude, but the absence of the other nine reminds us of how easy it is to take God’s blessings for granted without acknowledging the Giver.
Both stories show us that belief is more than just intellectual agreement—it’s an action of the heart. Jesus’s miracles weren’t just about healing bodies; they were about awakening faith.
Word of the Day: Believe
Definition: Accepting (something) as true; to feel sure of the truth of.
Remembering Your Lazarus Moments
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves at crossroads where the path ahead seems uncertain. Doubts cloud our vision, fears grip our hearts, and the noise of the world drowns out the still, small voice of truth. But in these moments of uncertainty, the Scriptures call us to a simple yet profound action: Believe.
How do we strengthen our belief? One way is to look back at our “Lazarus Moments”—those times when God stepped into our lives and worked a miracle. Just as Jesus called Lazarus forth from the tomb, there have likely been times in your life when God brought new life into a situation that seemed dead. These moments remind us of His power and faithfulness.
Yet, belief isn’t just about looking back. It’s also about looking forward with faith, knowing that Jesus continues to work in our lives every day. Lazarus wasn’t just a miracle for one family—it was a sign for all of us, pointing to the ultimate power of God over death and the grave.
Returning to the Healer, Not Just the Healing
In the story of the ten lepers, all ten received healing, but only one returned to thank Jesus. That one leper recognized that his healing wasn’t just a blessing to enjoy; it was a sign pointing to the Healer Himself.
This story challenges us to ask ourselves: Are we seeking God’s blessings, or are we seeking God Himself? It’s easy to pray for what we need—healing, provision, guidance—but how often do we return to thank Him for what He has done? Belief isn’t just about asking God for things; it’s about acknowledging His presence in our lives and expressing gratitude for His grace.
The leper’s faith was made complete not just by his healing, but by his return to Jesus. He didn’t just believe in the miracle; he believed in the Miracle-Worker.
October 21
Luke 18:9-14, Mark 10:1-12, Matthew 19:1-12, Mark 10:13-16, Matthew 19:13-15, Luke 18:15-17, Mark 10:17-31, Matthew 19:16-30, Luke 18:18-30
What is Possible with God
In today’s readings, we encounter profound lessons in humility, surrender, and what is truly possible with God. Jesus teaches through parables, interactions with people, and thought-provoking questions, revealing the need for hearts devoted to God.
In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells the parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector praying in the temple. The Pharisee boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for God’s mercy. Jesus teaches that the one who humbles himself is exalted, reminding us that God seeks genuine hearts over appearances.
In Mark 10:1-12 and Matthew 19:1-12, Jesus addresses the topic of divorce when the Pharisees try to trap Him. He emphasizes God’s original design for marriage as a lifelong covenant, established at creation. Though the Pharisees focus on legal loopholes, Jesus points to the heart of the matter: God desires love and faithfulness in marriage.
In Mark 10:13-16, Matthew 19:13-15, and Luke 18:15-17, Jesus welcomes children, saying, “Let the children come to me.” His words emphasize the need for childlike faith to enter God’s Kingdom. No one is too small or unimportant to be embraced by God.
Lastly, in Mark 10:17-31, Matthew 19:16-30, and Luke 18:18-30, a rich young ruler asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. When Jesus tells him to sell everything and follow Him, the man leaves sorrowfully, unable to part with his wealth. Jesus teaches that it’s difficult for the rich to enter the Kingdom but assures us that with God, all things are possible.
Word of the Day: Possible
Definition: Able to be done; within the power or capacity of someone or something.
God Makes the Impossible, Possible
Sometimes, life presents us with challenges that seem too hard to overcome. But today’s readings remind us that with God, all things are possible.
- A Fresh Start is Possible:
We see two men—one who thinks he’s righteous and another who knows he is not. Jesus shows that God is always ready to offer mercy when we come to Him with humility. No matter how far we feel we’ve strayed, a fresh start with God is always possible. - A Strong Marriage is Possible:
Relationships will face trials, but Jesus reminds us that God’s design is for lasting love. A strong marriage becomes possible when both partners humble themselves, seek God first, and love one another with tender hearts. True love endures when we put God above ourselves. - Wholehearted Service to God is Possible:
The rich young ruler struggled to follow Jesus fully because his heart was tied to his wealth. Jesus teaches that while giving our all may seem impossible, nothing is too hard for God. It’s not about what we give up—it’s about what we gain when we surrender fully to Him.
In every scenario, humility is the key to unlocking the “impossible.”
- We need humility to recognize our need for God’s mercy.
- We need humility to love others selflessly.
- We need humility to release what holds us back and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Every impossible moment is an invitation to deeper humility and surrender, allowing God to work through us.
A Call to Believe in the Possible
There are moments in life when we face what seems like impossible situations. But when we remember that with God, all things are possible, we shift our perspective. Even when earthly wisdom fails, God’s wisdom prevails.
What situation in your life feels impossible right now? Call up your belief, lean into God’s promises, and trust Him to make the impossible, possible. It’s not about our strength—it’s about God’s power at work in us.
October 22
Matthew 20:1-16, Mark 10:32-34, Matthew 20:17-19, Luke 18:31-34, Mark 10:35-45, Matthew 20:20-34, Mark 10:46-52, Luke 18:35-19:27
Servants in God’s Kingdom
In today’s readings, we encounter teachings from Jesus that turn our natural understanding of success and honor upside down. Jesus presents parables, interactions, and lessons that remind us of the importance of humility, service, and grace in the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 20:1-16 shares the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. In this story, a landowner hires workers throughout the day, yet all receive the same wage—a denarius. Those hired first grumble about the fairness of being paid the same as those who worked fewer hours. The landowner reminds them of his generosity and concludes with this profound statement: “The last will be first, and the first last.”
In Mark 10:32-34, Matthew 20:17-19, and Luke 18:31-34, Jesus again predicts His suffering and death, but His disciples still don’t fully understand. Even as Jesus faces the cross, His focus is not on status but on fulfilling the will of God.
Mark 10:35-45 introduces us to James and John’s request for positions of honor. Jesus challenges them, saying they do not know what they ask. When they affirm their willingness, Jesus reveals that following Him will mean sharing in His suffering. Greatness, Jesus explains, is not about power but servanthood: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.”
The lessons conclude with stories of healing and transformation in Luke 18:35–19:27. We meet a blind man in Jericho, whose faith leads to his healing, and Zacchaeus, the tax collector, who encounters Jesus and joyfully repents. These stories reinforce that the path to restoration lies in seeking Jesus, serving others, and embracing grace.
Word of the Day: Servant
Definition: A person who performs duties for others.
True Greatness Is Found in Serving Others
Our culture often equates greatness with status, wealth, or influence. However, Jesus turns that thinking upside down.
- Greatness in God’s Kingdom Comes Through Service:
When James and John sought places of honor, Jesus pointed them to the path of service. He explained that true greatness lies not in authority but in servanthood. Jesus, the King of kings, came to serve—to heal the sick, wash feet, and ultimately lay down His life for us. - God’s Grace Is Not About Fairness but Generosity:
The parable of the vineyard workers reminds us that God’s ways are not like ours. Whether we come to faith early or late in life, His grace covers us equally. The reward is not based on the hours we put in but on God’s boundless love and generosity. - Our Call to Serve Others:
We can see ourselves in Zacchaeus, who climbed the tree to see Jesus. When we shift our perspective—from seeking recognition to seeking Jesus—we experience true transformation. Like Zacchaeus, our lives are changed not by what we gain but by what we give.
The blind men cried out for mercy, and Jesus responded with compassion. Zacchaeus repented and made restitution, reconnecting with his community. Their lives show us that service begins with humility and a willingness to be transformed by God.
The Power of Humble Service
The path to greatness often starts with small, hidden acts of service. Jesus challenges us to follow His example by embracing humility and serving others with joy.
- What Does It Look Like to Serve in Everyday Life?
Service might mean listening when someone needs to be heard, offering kindness to a stranger, or sharing your faith. Like the mother of James and John, we might initially seek recognition, but Jesus invites us to shift our focus to others. - Where in Your Life Is God Calling You to Serve?
Reflect on where God is calling you to be a servant today. Is it within your family, workplace, church, or community? What small act of kindness can you offer that reflects the heart of Jesus?
The more we serve, the more we discover the heart of God. In giving, we find ourselves. In serving, we find purpose. And in surrendering, we receive the grace to live abundantly.
October 23
Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13, John 12:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19, Luke 19:41-44, John 12:20-36
Hosanna in the Highest
In today’s readings, we witness two pivotal moments—an extravagant act of worship by Mary in Bethany and Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where shouts of “Hosanna” echo in the streets. These stories remind us that Jesus’s kingship defies expectations, and true worship involves both sacrifice and surrender.
Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13, John 12:1-11
Jesus is dining in Bethany at Simon’s house when Mary, the sister of Lazarus, performs a beautiful act of devotion. Without saying a word, she anoints Jesus’s head with an expensive perfume—worth a year’s wages. This extravagant gesture foreshadows Jesus’s burial and reflects Mary’s understanding that Jesus is the King, deserving of anointing.
While some criticize her for the apparent waste, Jesus defends Mary, saying, “She has done a beautiful thing to me.” He acknowledges that they will always have the poor, but not Him, emphasizing the importance of recognizing sacred moments. This act will be remembered and retold for generations.
Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19
As Jesus prepares to enter Jerusalem, He sends two disciples to find a donkey and a colt. The people lay their cloaks and palm branches on the ground, shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” The crowd recognizes Jesus as a King, but their understanding is limited. They expect Him to bring political salvation, not realizing He offers something far greater—spiritual and eternal salvation.
Jesus’s arrival causes excitement and frustration. While His followers rejoice, the Pharisees feel threatened. They even ask Jesus to rebuke His disciples, but He replies, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”
Luke 19:41-44 adds a poignant moment—Jesus weeping over Jerusalem, lamenting their failure to recognize “the way to peace.” His heart breaks, not in condemnation but in compassion, wishing they would turn to Him.
John 12:20-36
Some Greeks approach Jesus, eager to see Him. Jesus uses this moment to speak of His impending death, comparing it to a grain of wheat that must die to produce many seeds. Though troubled, Jesus affirms that His mission is to bring life and light.
Word of the Day: Hosanna
Definition: To express adoration, praise, or joy (especially in biblical, Judaic, and Christian use).
The Dual Meaning of Hosanna
In biblical times, “Hosanna” was not just a word of praise—it was a cry for help. The people of Jerusalem longed for deliverance from Roman rule and saw Jesus as the answer. However, their expectations were earthly and political, while Jesus’s mission was heavenly and eternal.
Like the crowds, we often cry out to Jesus when life becomes overwhelming. Our “Hosannas” come from moments of desperation—pleas for healing, financial provision, restored relationships, or peace in troubled times. Yet, Jesus offers us more than temporary relief. He offers Himself as the way, the truth, and the life.
- Surrendering Expectations: Often, we want Jesus to solve our problems on our terms, just as the people of Jerusalem expected a political king. True faith, however, requires us to lay down our expectations and trust in who Jesus is, even when His answers are unexpected.
- Finding Joy in the Midst of Trials: Just as “Hosanna” is both a plea and a praise, we can praise God even in our hardest moments. It’s an act of faith to thank God not only for what He has done but for what He will do, trusting His perfect plan.
Jesus doesn’t just save us from our circumstances; He saves us for eternity. He invites us to cry out to Him, trusting that He hears and answers in ways far greater than we can imagine.
A Heart of Worship
Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with perfume was costly, but she held nothing back. Her silent act of worship teaches us that true worship isn’t about words—it’s about the heart.
- Worship Through Sacrifice: Just as Mary poured out what was precious to her, we are invited to offer our time, resources, and hearts to Jesus. Worship isn’t always convenient or comfortable, but it’s worth it.
- Recognizing Sacred Moments: Mary’s act reminds us to be present in the sacred moments of life. Sometimes, like the disciples, we are too busy or distracted to notice what God is doing. Let’s pause and worship Him fully, without reservation.
Through Mary’s sacrifice, the shouts of “Hosanna,” and the tears of Jesus over Jerusalem, we see a picture of a God who longs for our hearts. He wants us to come to Him—not only with our needs but with our whole selves.
October 24
John 12:37-50, Mark 11:12-14, Matthew 21:18-22, Mark 11:15-19, Matthew 21:12-17, Luke 19:45-48, Mark 11:20-33, Matthew 21:23-27, Luke 20:1-8
Shining Light From the Fig Tree to the Temple
In today’s readings, we explore a series of events where Jesus’s actions might seem startling at first glance. He curses a fig tree, overturns tables in the temple, and confronts the Pharisees. But as we dig deeper, we realize that Jesus was shining His light into the darkness of hypocrisy, lifeless faith, and hardened hearts.
John 12:37-50
Despite witnessing miracles, many people still doubted Jesus. “For they loved human praise more than the praise of God,” (John 12:43). Jesus explains that His mission is to bring light into a dark world, urging people to trust Him and find eternal life. “I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark,” (John 12:48).
Mark 11:12-14, Matthew 21:18-22: The Cursed Fig Tree
On His way to Jerusalem, Jesus encounters a fig tree with no fruit and curses it. This act serves as a lesson on faith and the importance of producing spiritual fruit. EnduringWord.com offers insight: God isn’t pleased with the appearance of fruit without the reality. It’s not enough to look the part; genuine faith must bear fruit. “Talk without walk” is not what God desires from His people.
Mark 11:15-19, Matthew 21:12-17, Luke 19:45-48: Clearing the Temple
Jesus enters the temple and drives out the merchants and money changers. His actions shine a light on the misuse of God’s house, exposing the corruption of the religious leaders. Jesus declares, “My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” (Mark 11:17). His righteous anger emphasizes that worship must come from the heart and that God’s house is a place for prayer, not profit.
In Matthew’s account, Jesus follows these actions with acts of healing, showing that true worship includes compassion for the broken.
Mark 11:20-33, Matthew 21:23-27: Lessons in Faith and Forgiveness
The next day, the disciples see that the cursed fig tree has withered, and Jesus uses it to teach about the power of prayer and faith. He urges them to pray with belief and forgive others, for a hard heart can block the flow of God’s forgiveness.
Back at the temple, the religious leaders challenge Jesus’s authority. Jesus counters their question with one about John the Baptist, exposing their unwillingness to face the truth. As William Barclay says, they ended up twisting themselves in knots, revealing their hypocrisy.
Word of the Day: Shine
Definition: to direct light in order to see in the dark; (noun) the brightness produced when light reflects on something.
In John 12:46, Jesus declares, “I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.”
The world is full of darkness—broken relationships, addictions, fear, and false beliefs. But Jesus doesn’t leave us in that darkness. He shines His light to reveal truth, expose sin, and guide us toward grace.
- Light in the Temple: Jesus cleansed the temple, driving out darkness and restoring its purpose. He calls us to examine our own hearts—what needs to be driven out so that we can fully worship Him?
- Light in Prayer: Through the withered fig tree, Jesus teaches us that faith isn’t about appearances but rooted in real belief. Are we holding onto grudges or doubts that block God’s light in our lives?
- Light in Forgiveness: Forgiving others allows God’s forgiveness to shine through us. Darkness hides in the corners of resentment, but Jesus invites us to let His light bring healing and release.
When we encounter hard things—like anger, injustice, or unanswered prayers—Jesus’s actions remind us that He doesn’t ignore darkness; He confronts it. His actions may seem startling at times, but they are always filled with purpose and light.
- Shining Light in Our Circumstances: Just as the fig tree withered under Jesus’s word, so too can the dark areas of our lives wither under His light. Are there areas in your life that need the light of Jesus today?
- Trusting the Light in Hard Times: Jesus teaches us that faith and forgiveness go hand in hand. It’s not easy to forgive or to trust when life feels dark, but the light of Jesus enables us to pray with confidence, knowing that He hears us.
Remember, where Jesus is, there is no darkness. He came to shine His light in your life, driving out fear, doubt, and sin. Let’s allow Him to shine brightly, not only in our hearts but through our actions.
October 25
Matthew 21:28-32, Mark 12:1-12, Matthew 21:33-46, Luke 20:9-19, Matthew 22:1-14, Mark 12:13-17, Matthew 22:15-22, Luke 20:20-26, Mark 12:18-27, Matthew 22:23-33, Luke 20:27-40
Building Upon the Cornerstone
In today’s readings, we reflect on several parables and teachings where Jesus confronts religious hypocrisy, illustrates the importance of repentance, and challenges His followers to build their lives upon a firm foundation. These powerful lessons call us to realign our faith with the Chief Cornerstone—Jesus Christ.
Matthew 21:28-32: The Parable of Two Sons
In this parable, one son refuses to work but later repents and obeys his father, while the other promises to go but never follows through. Jesus highlights that true repentance matters more than appearances. Obedience isn’t about words; it’s about actions.
Mark 12:1-12, Matthew 21:33-46, Luke 20:9-19: The Parable of the Wicked Tenants
The tenants entrusted with a vineyard mistreat the landowner’s servants and ultimately kill his son. Jesus uses this parable to emphasize the rejection of God’s messengers throughout history and the ultimate rejection of His Son. The parable warns of the consequences of rejecting God and announces that the Kingdom of God will be entrusted to those who produce fruit.
Jesus concludes by quoting Psalm 118: “The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.”
Matthew 22:1-14: The Parable of the Wedding Feast
In this parable, a king invites guests to a wedding feast for his son, but many refuse to come. Others mistreat the king’s messengers, prompting the king to invite anyone they can find. However, one guest is thrown out for not wearing the appropriate attire, symbolizing the importance of responding to God’s invitation with sincere repentance. As Charles Spurgeon noted, the guest came only for personal gain, not to honor the king or his son.
Mark 12:13-17, Matthew 22:15-22, Luke 20:20-26: The Trap on Taxes
The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus by asking if it’s lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus’s response, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God,” reveals that while earthly duties matter, God’s claim on our hearts is ultimate.
Mark 12:18-27, Matthew 22:23-33, Luke 20:27-40: The Sadducees’ Question on the Resurrection
The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question about marriage in the afterlife. Jesus corrects their misunderstanding by explaining that relationships in heaven transcend earthly concepts. He emphasizes God’s power and the reality of resurrection, proving it with Scripture: “He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob”—not the God of the dead, but of the living.
Word of the Day: Cornerstone
Definition: A cornerstone is the essential foundation upon which everything else is built. In ancient construction, it was the stone that aligned the entire structure. In Scripture, Jesus is called the Chief Cornerstone of our faith.
The cornerstone determines the stability and alignment of the entire building. Without Jesus as the cornerstone of our faith, everything else falls out of alignment. Just as builders need a firm foundation, we must build our lives on the solid foundation of Christ.
Consider these questions:
- Are you building your faith upon the Chief Cornerstone, or relying on your efforts, traditions, or appearances?
- Are you allowing Jesus to shape every aspect of your life—your decisions, relationships, and priorities?
Jesus warns us in these passages that a foundation built on anything other than Him will not stand. He is the only plan for salvation. When Jesus holds the central place in our lives, everything else falls into place according to His perfect design. Build upon Him, and your faith will withstand the trials of life.
The Pharisees, Sadducees, and religious leaders rejected Jesus—the Chief Cornerstone. Their refusal to align with Him led to spiritual collapse. But we have a choice. We can lay down our pride, embrace Jesus as our cornerstone, and build our lives upon Him.
Like the parable of the wedding feast, God invites everyone to His banquet. However, it’s not enough to simply show up. We must come prepared—clothed in humility, repentance, and a heart aligned with God’s will. True faith is not just about appearances but about genuine transformation.
Let’s embrace Jesus, the Chief Cornerstone, and allow His light to guide us. In doing so, we can build lives that reflect His love, grace, and truth.
