READ
11 How is it that you fail to perceive that I did not speak about bread? Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. (Matthew 16:11–12, RSV2CE)
REFLECT
Beware of listening to people who are not following God and think they are. The Pharisees and Sadducees were masters of religion and followed the law spectacularly. But the law was to guide the heart. They were hard hearted. They were trying to earn favor and power. The only way to get favor is to know I am a sinner and need divine assistance for everything. It’s not my perfect obedience that brings his mercy and love, it’s my broken heart that needs help to follow his ways because he loves me and knows best what I was made for. He made me for a purpose and until I let him help me see what that is and empower me to live it I will be frustrated.
PRAY
Jesus, please heal my broken heart soul and mind. Help me see what I was made for. You love me and made me for a purpose. I will be happy fulfilling that purpose. Help me stop trying to be perfect in obedience and instead learn to love you and the journey we are on. I sometimes get so caught up in the rules I too forget the heart. You want love not legalists. You want communion not religion. You do want obedience but out of knowledge that I was made for love and your plan is perfect for me.
REST
Thank you for your perfect plan. Thank you for making me and wanting me to be fulfilled. Help me see your love and respond the same. Help me stop fearing wrath and be excited for your communion. I love you. Amen.
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