Adding the Scriptures and Kingdom

Scripture: “Therefore,” He said to them, “every student of Scripture instructed in the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who brings out of his storeroom what is new and what is old.” Matthew 13:52

Observation: Jesus has just given a series of parables about what "the kingdom of heaven is like" and concludes it with this statement. He is making three distinct statements. First, that those who learn and receive information about the kingdom of heaven are receiving something new. Second, that new information is not to replace, but is rather added to the old information in Scripture. And third, that both the old and the new, possessed together, is the worthy goal.

The disciples are being told not to merely listen to the new information of Jesus, nor to simply put his lessons into the context of the scriptures and judge it as reinforcement of the law. Instead, they are both to exist together, side by side. The kingdom of heaven is about the discovery of faith in God and Jesus, while the law of scripture is about living a life out of that faith. That life is not just compliant, but in alignment to the intentions of God and his creation.

Application: Jesus taught really basic faith to many listening to him, and discussed proper living in the context of that faith. However, with his disciples, he goes deeper and shows the alignment of all scripture to all of his teaching. This will continue so strongly that ultimately, at least a dozen years after his death (or more), James will write a book that explicitly defines faith AS the practice of living and behaving following God's instructions.

My faith is being tested this week. What some might call "faith" ... belief in Jesus as Lord and savior ... is not at question at all in my life. But true faith - absolutely believing and knowing that, whatever happens, God's ways are absolutely for the best - is strained. I want specific outcomes for my daughter, my son, and my family. I am praying for those outcomes, not for God's will. I pray that his will IS these outcomes ... but I know I will be sad and a little angry if they aren't.

I fear that, in all this, my thoughts are behaviors are suffering. I have written often lately about my anger, frustration, and lack of patience with others. I can literally tell myself "be patient" and four seconds later revert to frustration.

Jesus is clear: My hesitation to completely trust God, and my inability to be patient, are one and the same issue. I need to add faith in Jesus - the kingdom of heaven - to the scriptural lessons, instead of leaning on faith alone.

Prayer: Lord, please do forgive my weakness. I absolutely trust you. Yes, I wish there were certain outcomes, but those wishes come from my love for my family and a desire to see their joy. I will seek patience this day, find joy in others and not frustration, and do my best to trust in your ways regardless of near-term outcomes. Amen.