The blind beggar becomes the perfect example of what it means to be a follower of Christ. It is not until we recognize ourselves sitting beside the road as a beggar in need of mercy and healing that we truly be a grateful follower of Christ.

On his way to the cross, Jesus redefines the disciples’ expectations of glory. True glory is Jesus' love for us on the cross. 

The rich young ruler kept the Ten Commandment listed by Jesus. It was the unspoken commands that held him back: the first four about God and the last commandment about coveting. His money had become an idol. Is money an idol for you, something you put before God? When you ask yourself, “what about me and my money,” how do you answer?

In an age of anxiety and uncertainty, we hold to the promise that Jesus is mindful of us and for us.

Jesus' teaching about marriage and divorce is not just about rules, but about the powers of separation that have been put to death on Christ's Cross. Ultimately, we learn that marriage is a created image of what Christ has done for us. He has made us "one flesh" with Himself, bringing peace between Jew and Gentile by enjoining them together in His One Body. So, let no one separate what God has brought together; for, the the Kingdom is at hand!

For the righteous person (James 5:16), prayer is powerful and effective. What makes us righteous? Jesus, of course. To pray out of our faith in his grace and love is to embody the power and presence of God in our prayers more than we too often imagine.

Perhaps our wealth is a barrier to faith. Instead, we are called to put our trust in Jesus who provides for all your needs and pray to him in all circumstances. And when we trust him and speak to him in all circumstance, we will find peace.

Jesus embraces a little boy to demonstrate that his love is given to those who embody the very opposite of striving after acceptance, status, or success. That ought to sound like awfully good news to those of us who strive a lot.