Devos for Jan 20th

Scripture:

Genesis chapter 50; Psalms chapter 8; Luke 20:9-19

Application/Observation

This is the parable about the wicked tenants that Jesus shares in Luke 20. In it we see the progression of Gods relationship with man reflected in his words about the wicked tenants. First we see that a man plants a vineyard and allowed tenants to stay there to watch over it. Representing God creating the earth and giving authority over the earth to man. Then the man wants some of the fruits of his vineyard and the tenants rejected the one who came to get it. This being like the prophets who brought the word of God yet was rejected by man. The vineyard owner continues his attempts to get fruits from his own vineyard and the tenants only got more objective about giving back to the owner. Much like man pushing God away more and more as He pursues us. Then the owner of the vineyard sends his son thinking they must have respect on the son of the owner of the vineyard. But they treated him as a means to an end and killed him for their own selfish gain. This is reflective of the Son of God who was sent as a final effort to restore man unto Himself, Jesus came to point man back to God. When the Son of God came he too was killed with selfish motives in mind; man didn’t want to be held accountable for their sins, yet in the death and resurrection of Christ we see the truth and life that he brings. He still crossed the divide with man and God bringing reconciliation and restoration to all who believe. In the end of the parable Jesus says that the owner will go himself and remove the wicked tenants. This is saying that those who don’t believe on Jesus, God will remove them just as the tenants.

In this story we see Gods plans and heart; He gave us everything we have to begin with and all He wants is to have good fruits coming forth from the vineyard. God wants us to be in right relationship with Him, to accept Him and His Son who came for all. God just wants relationship with you and I.    

Prayer

Lord in the times I am like the wicked tenants with my actions not wanting to give with a willing heart or share my time, talents, and treasure please bring back to me a spirit of love for you. I want to be a cheerful giver with all that I have and all that I am. Lord let me set into right priority my time and giving so I can best be your servant. God you are great and worthy to be praised, I love you in Jesus name, amen.