8.1 - Let Jesus Speak

Scripture Reading: Luke 16:19-31

Reflection: Some things Jesus says are to receive. Grace. Forgiveness. Rest. Eternal life. Other things make you uncomfortable. Judgment is one of them. But following Jesus means allowing Him to speak even when you wish He had said something different. In Luke 16, Jesus tells a story. Whatever questions remain, His warning is hard to miss: this life matters, judgment is real, and your response to God matters beyond this life. You do not need to enjoy that teaching. You do not need to pretend it raises no questions. But you do have to decide whether Jesus is trustworthy enough to tell you the truth, even when the truth is difficult. Faith cannot mean trusting Jesus only when He confirms what you already want to believe. Resist the urge to explain away the uncomfortable parts. Sit with His words. Ask Him for humility to listen before deciding what He should have said.

Application Question: What teaching of Jesus are you most tempted to soften, avoid, or explain away because it challenges what you want to believe?