June 16 – Luke 11:14-28
Blessed are you who hear the word of God and keep it!
After hearing Jesus speak, one can imagine the stir of the crowd. Murmurs of doubt, questions, confusion, excitement, and understanding. There would have been a wide range of emotions and an understanding of all variations. So it would be no surprise that someone would shout blessings to the mother who cared for, raised, and taught this Jesus.
But Jesus was quick to point her praise to God. While not disputing His mom’s role, He reminded us that all the glory was God’s. It was by His will, His appointment, that Mary had the honor of raising Jesus. And He acknowledged that Mary did hear the word of God, and she did keep it! His will was done! The woman who shouted still had a limited understanding of just who God is; she was still short-sighted, and Jesus kindly made that scope a whole lot wider.
Nothing is said further of this woman. Did it click for her? Did she believe? Was she blown away at the sheer awesomeness? We don’t know. What we do know is that for centuries, people have gathered together just like we are now and reading these verses!
It is not enough to hear God’s word and truths, for, like Mary, we must act on it. Do as He tells us. There should be no other option apart from God. It is an encouraging directive! While it is a blessing to have children and raise them as was the custom, here Jesus is telling her of the true blessing. The one that transcends all other blessings, the blessing of faith and obedience. Blessed are you who are continually in His word and communication with Him.
My Verse: “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28
My Response: God I thank You for giving me ears to hear and eyes to see, for You knew I would need both to come to You in faith. Thank You for meeting me right where I am at every single moment of every single day.
(Further Reading: James 1:19-27)
