SAINT MARTIN DE PORRES, RELIGIOUS (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

The people there were observing him carefully. 

Think about the opportunity these dinner guests had. They were sharing a meal with the Messiah! But instead of using this time to get to know Jesus, they focused on “observing him carefully” so they could find something to fault him for (Luke 14:1). Can you imagine how thick the atmosphere must have been with suspicion and cynicism?

But notice how Jesus reacts to this poor treatment: he doesn’t respond in kind; instead, he heals a man! Then he tries to open their minds to the gospel message he had come to preach. Later, he goes on to offer his dinner companions advice and parables that illustrate the kind of humility and openheartedness that please his heavenly Father (Luke 14:7-24).

Can you see how much Jesus loved these people? He knew they were judging him. He knew that many of them had already hardened their hearts against him. But he still tried to reach them with his preaching. He knew there was a chance that some of those hardened hearts could still be softened.

When you were baptized, Jesus became a guest in your heart as well—and he will never leave you. Just as he didn’t give up on those dinner guests, he won’t give up on you. He knows the areas in your life where you are still resisting him. He knows about the sins you don’t want to confess and the temptations you have given up fighting. And still he treasures you and wants to heal you, forgive you, and reveal his love to you even more deeply.

So make sure you are setting aside time to be with Jesus. Imagine yourself setting a place for him in your heart. Even if you have your doubts and suspicions, sit down with him and listen to his words of wisdom. If it was possible for the people at that dinner party to change, it is certainly possible for you—and Jesus knows it! A life of holiness is within your grasp, and it all begins with spending time with the Lord. Do it today. Don’t just read the words of this meditation and then move on. Linger with Jesus and listen for the message he has just for you.

“Lord, I welcome you into my heart. Help me to hear your voice today.”

Romans 9:1-5
Psalm 147:12-15, 19-20
Luke 14:1-6