Thursday, January 20, 2022
Joy and Witness
Yesterday we reflected on words from the Apostles whose relationship with Christ was personal, immediate and joyful. Today we consider how we might join these disciples to witness to God’s incomparable goodness.
Matthew tells us that Jesus is Emmanuel, God among us. He announces the coming of great joy.
The Christmas Miracle – Matthew 2:10: When the magi saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Matthew records Jesus’ description of heaven as a hidden reassure. He announces the unfolding of deep joy.
Hidden Treasure – Matthew 13:44: The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
Matthew records Jesus’ parable of stewardship. He announces the unfolding of the kingdom’s joy.
The Parable of the Talents – Matthew 25:19-21: Now after a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts. The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, “Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have gained five more talents”. His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master”.
Matthew reminds us of the resurrection miracle. He announces the promise of our own profound joy.
At the Tomb – Matthew 28:8: Mary Magdalene and the other Mary left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to Jesus’ disciples.
We are called to witness to God’s promises, to Jesus’ intercession, and to the Spirit’s healing. What will we do today to pass along the Good News and joy in Matthew’s story?
If this week’s Noontimes call you to search for more ways to encounter Joy or urges you to investigate the New Testament, click on the word Joy in the categories cloud in the blog’s right hand sidebar and choose a reflection, or enter those words in the blog search bar.
Images from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gerard_van_Honthorst_001.jpg and http://quoteeveryday.com/easter-tomb-background/
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