“what is it you want?” (mt 20:21)
“Let us carefully note his every word.” —Jeremiah 18:18
Even during Lent, we can carefully note God’s every word for the wrong reasons — not for serving God, but for selfish motives. The enemies of Jeremiah paid close attention to his words — not to be changed by them but to find a means to destroy him. Likewise, Jesus’ enemies paid close attention to His words — not to be transformed by His words, but to find “a means to destroy Him.”
It’s all in the wanting, in our desires. Jesus Himself asks us: “What is it you want?” (Mt 20:21) Jesus knows that we move according to the desires of our heart (see Lk 6:45; Jn 2:21).
During Lent, let us carefully note God’s every word — not for finding loopholes to avoid the discipline of Lent, but to allow the Word of God to change and mold us. Let us desire what Jesus desires — to give our hearts and minds completely to Him.
“What is it you want?” Lord, may I want what You want. Change my desires to align totally with Yours. “Not my will but Yours be done” (Lk 22:42).
Prayer: Father, purify me for a genuine love (1 Pt 1:22).
Promise: “Whoever wants to rank first among you must serve the needs of all.” —Mt 20:27
Praise: St. Katharine said, “And here is the passive way...peaceful abandonment to the tenderness of Jesus.” This “passive” woman founded a religious order and nearly sixty missions and schools!
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (Luke reveals the great regard and respect Jesus has for women in his Gospel. Study with us Mar. 19-20 at our Retreat Center in Adams County, Ohio. Register at www.presentationministries.com or contact us at retreats@presentationministries.com.)
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