Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around Him that He got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then He told them many things in parables…
– Matthew 13:1-3a
Devotion
Jesus often taught in parables (“comparisons”). A parable compares something familiar with something spiritual (truths about the ways and works of God). Often Jesus’ purpose for speaking in parables was to conceal truth to those who were closed (hard-hearted, unreceptive) and to reveal truth to the receptive. Most of His parables were comparisons between earthly, everyday situations/things/people and the parallel (corresponding) heavenly, spiritual realities that they pictured. Matthew tended to gather Jesus’ teaching into groups (for literary purposes); thus chapter 13 of Matthew is a grouping of 7 key parables. This week you are encouraged to read Matthew chapter 13 in its entirety.
The Big Question
Which parable in Matthew 13 speaks to you the most? Why? Do you find it helpful that Jesus spoke in parables? Why? Why not? Are you open or receptive to the teachings of Jesus?
Conclude your time in prayer and silence, reflecting on what God revealed to you today.