Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. —John 8:43
Today’s verse comes from a heated conversation between Jesus, the scribes and the Pharisees. These religious leaders believed they were saved because of their royal bloodline and because of the traditions they followed. They mistakenly believed their traditions made God their Father, when in reality they had lost the true meaning of relying on God. Jesus says this verse to them to show them the importance of true worship. Many people today believe the same thing as the Pharisees did. Many Christians are raised to attend church regularly, read the Bible and observe religious holidays—yet they don’t have a personal relationship with God. While these religious traditions help Christians express their love for the Lord and become closer with Him, they aren’t what make a person a child of God. For Jesus’ language to be clear to you, you must receive Him and believe in Him. You must actively engage your mind and heart with the Lord, not just your physical person. A childhood steeped in religion is certainly a positive thing, but one can’t simply go through the motions without truly having faith. In the Pharisees’ case, if God had been their father, they would have understood Jesus’ meaning. Similarly, we can only understand God’s meaning if we embrace Him fully. Each day, make an effort to hear and understand what God tells you. Don’t let the monotony of everyday life dull your spirituality. No one can have a relationship with God on your behalf. Take charge of your own relationship with Christ, and go beyond the daily tasks you’ve been brought up to do. Find and define your own love of God.
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