The Book of Luke

There is a big theme in Luke 18, and we will see, it is good news. Focus on verses 9-14, 17, 22-26, 31, 38-39.  How do we find our way to God? Do not be so quick to associate yourself with the tax collector rather than the Pharisee in v. 9-14. Somehow it creeps in; we think we can do it in our own strength, earn, be proud. Examine yourself today. Invite the Lord to reveal to you the ways you are like this Pharisee. Now, look at the humility of the tax collector! We enter and live in the Kingdom of God in humility; as a child. It is possible only with God, through the accomplishment of Jesus alone. From the very beginning it is faith in the work Christ has accomplished; it is humility. You cannot do it, but He can and He did!

Let us also acknowledge the parable of the persistent widow. How can we have this kind of persistence? Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, "[Prayer] means rather to find the way to God and to speak with him, whether the heart is full or empty. No man can do that by himself. For that he needs Jesus Christ.” The good news of great joy: there is only one way to know God, and it is through faith in Jesus Christ and the work He has already accomplished! It is not “feeling it out” or “earning,” it is receiving in humility through faith. Today, let us learn to find our way to God in prayer through Jesus Christ alone, in humility, completely dependent upon Him. And let us persist in it. Respond to His invitation in verse 22 and follow Him.

Read Luke 18 and answer the reflection questions to help you process the passage.