November 4 Learning Time

Luke 8:16-18 “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him.”

WHAT has happened when you’ve taken a class in school, and you did not like the subject? You likely listened with an unwilling ear. You received just enough knowledge to get through the class. When the class was done, you may have neglected to use any knowledge from the teachings. You gained little and used little.
    On the other hand, those who enjoyed the class and the teachings grew into the subject’s knowledge. They entered the classroom eager to learn. They, in turn, left the classroom wiser, and they were able to teach others. The willing, interested students gained, kept and used knowledge.
    This is Jesus’ point here. Being a light is a very positive view of the Christian life, isn’t it?  But do you see what is required for Kingdom light living? Be attentive to Jesus’ insistent admonition to “Consider carefully how you listen.”
    Yes, be alert. The Teacher has told us, “Come to class. Eagerly prepare for the teaching!” If you are a poor Kingdom student, your truth supply will be low. And worse you will not use what you learn. In contrast, those who eagerly pursue Jesus’ teachings will grow more deeply into God’s knowledge.
    Deeply desire to know Jesus. Consider the Teacher instructs you how to live in power and joy each day. Be mindful he points you directly to eternal life. Intentional, purposeful learning will enlighten you to become a light into the world.
     Are you eager to sit down with Jesus and learn from him each day? Do you listen carefully to see how sin impacts your knowledge of God? Do you intentionally listen to know the light of Jesus’ love and forgiveness? Are you truly hearing to grow in kingdom knowledge and wisdom? Are you excited to leave the “classroom” and tell of the Lord to others?
     I wonder what would happen if you answered each question with a joyful, “Yes!”
 
Prayer: My heart yearns to listen to you, Jesus. You are my light. In the Spirit’s power I pray I reflect you to others. Amen.