Daily Scripture Reading: Matthew 17:27 KJV
Matthew 17:27 KJV
(27) Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Today’s Devotional Is ME AND THEE
PETER WAS VERY well-to-do. He owned his boat, house, and nets. The fisherman had everything he needed. Jesus told the fisherman to “Come after me” and he immediately left everything. There was no supply for the tax collector, and the house was empty. Our Lord said that He was not obligated to fulfill the demand. To use His own words, as a child He was free. But He instantly identified himself with the troubled disciple, as He always does. Christ can never be left behind without our recognition and His willingness to pay any cost incurred from obedience.
The Master and His disciple were so identified that He refused to give two coins which could have suggested a severance in interest. It was not His intention to prove beyond all doubt that He and His are one and that His acts on our behalf, His willingness to fulfill the demands of us, is there any severance or patronage but an absolute identification?
These are some profound lessons. There are many demands that come knocking on our doors, and it is sometimes difficult, or even impossible, to meet them. The rent collector and tax collector both have needs for food and clothing. Is Christ not aware of this? Is He not faithful to His promise? Do you think He will allow us to give up in the fight? Never! The Master will assume any demand placed on the servant. He says: “Take, He says, and give to them for me and you.”
He reminds us that it is “for Me and you” as He enters the wilderness. He rises from the grave and lays down on the Cross. He is radiant with victory. Yes. And through all the ages yet to come, in the wonders of new worlds unfolding, He will never say anything other than: “That take, give, or use for Me and you.” Remember, we must both take and give. The unsearchable riches Christ has given us must be ours. We must also share them with others, or we will lose their blessings.
PRAYER for Today
We are grateful to Thee, Our Father, for our union in Christ the Risen. We are privileged to share in His glory, and we can live as joint-heirs with Christ. AMEN.