5 Minute Read + Scripture readings
Today’s Bible Reading:
Today’s Bible Verse(s):
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure, buried in a field, that a man found and reburied. Then in his joy he goes and sells everything he has and buys that field.”
Matthew 13:44 (CSB)
Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):
I want to share a truth with you that I pray will excite you and encourage you today.
When we look at Matthew 13:44, we see the phrase, “kingdom of Heaven.” Simply put, that is the designation that refers to King Jesus and all of those who have voluntarily come under His rule. If you are saved, you are in the kingdom of Heaven even though your feet are firmly planted on earth. Jesus is your King and you are under His authority, in His Kingdom.
So far, this sounds pretty cool, but let’s continue. When we read Matthew 13:44, we hear Jesus say that the kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered as he was walking across a field. He was so thrilled at the unspeakable fortune in front of him that he sold absolutely everything he had to buy the field … so that the treasure in that field would belong to him.
Jesus is saying that being a part of the kingdom of Heaven, with all of its privileges and responsibilities, when properly understood, is worth so much more than everything we claim as our own. If we fully understood the happiness that could be ours in the kingdom of Heaven, we would willingly give up everything else we claim as ours to gain it (if that were an option).
Look at your house, your vehicle(s), your bank account(s), your retirement account(s), your job(s), your relationships, … everything! If we fully understood the kingdom, we would see it as our treasure, even if gaining it meant losing everything else.
Something tells me that we don’t fully understand just how wonderful it is to be a part of the kingdom of Heaven. Why not look for that phrase (“kingdom of Heaven,” “kingdom of God,” etc.) in the Gospels as you read through the Bible this year. Pay careful attention to what Jesus said it is like. Then, realize you are already in that group. Let it impact how you think and live.
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Lord Jesus, since I am trusting in You and in You alone to make me right in the Father’s eyes, I am a part of something incredible! You are my King and I am Your willing, grateful servant. Help me to understand as I read through Your Word just how wonderful it is to be a part of the Kingdom of Heaven. Help me to realize how this causes me to view life, see myself, view what my priorities are, how I relate to others, and so much more. This year, I want to be informed and encouraged by Your Word to follow You and enjoy You even more passionately. Amen.
“Taking a Trip to Israel:
Pictures, Videos, Reflections and Tips from a Trip to the Holy Land”
A trip to Israel can bring the stories of the Bible to life! It is unfortunate that most people will never be able to afford such a trip or fit it into their busy schedules.
Let Matt Ellis take you on a trip with his wife. They went to Israel in the summer of 2018 and spent much time taking pictures, capturing videos, and providing reflections on the numerous sites he visited.
In the pages of this digital book, you’ll visit places like Nazareth and Capernaum. You’ll take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. You’ll visit the possible site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. And these are just a few of the more than 20 sites that are highlighted in this interactive book.
Making your way through the pages of this book will help you to ultimately get more out of your time in the greatest Book of all, God’s Word.
Click here to purchase this digital, interactive book on Amazon for $2.99.
Matt’s Musings 