Renew For The New Year
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles
Of course you already have decided on resolutions for the New Year. But then you know that by February …. they will more than likely all be broken. Not to worry. We are simply trying our best. We feel better about ourselves when we at least make an effort to improve ourselves.
Good for us!
My granddaughter is enrolled in a wonderful Christian University. She is taking a Bible class from a real Christian scholar. He not only knows New Testament but also is steeped in the Jewish culture of the First Century. He knows the times and life styles of the people to whom our Lord spoke. Why is that important to us?
Because the many parables spoken by Jesus could be best understood in the time period in which He lived. That’s not to say the words He spoke are not meaningful to us. But, He knew how to touch the hearts and minds of his listeners and to make the Torah take on a greater meaning. He was the completion of the “law.” In other words, He clarified the true meaning of the Mosaic instructions to Israel.
Read some of the parables recorded in Luke. See what new and interesting aspects of those parables come forth as you read. Do your homework. Perhaps take one of the Lord’s stories and do your research. Renew your mindset on what the Lord is teaching (Romans 12:2).
What do you really know about the Prodigal Son? (Luke 15:11-32)
Did you know that when the son asked his father to divide his inheritance .… he was actually saying ….”I wish you were dead!” No father in the first century would divide his inheritance with his children until after his death. It was shameful to even suggest such a thing. The community where the family lived would know that this son was bringing disgrace to his family.
Of course, he sold the property and taking the money, he left quickly. He didn’t want to stay where he would be shunned by the people. He spent the money in “loose living” and was penniless when he returned. But his loving father (who represents God), was always waiting for his son’s return.
He (God) loved this worthless fellow. He even gave him a banquet, a royal robe and a ring. Despite the wrongs committed and bringing on the shame of the community, the father welcomed with loving arms the wayward son. Of course there is more to the story. Find out for yourself. How does this apply to us?
Renew yourself in God’s word. More than merely a verse a day, steep yourself in real Bible study (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV; cf. Psalm 1:1-2. Make it a resolution you will keep and be blessed!
—Barbara Hyland, guest writer