February 13, 2021
I was reading and pondering the account in Luke chapter 4 of Jesus reading in the Synagogue in his hometown of Nazareth. Jesus infuriated the people by claiming the fulfillment (partially) of the prophecy in Isaiah, and with his references to God's work in the lives of Gentiles (the Sidonian widow of Sarepta, and the Syrian general Naaman). In their wrath they purposed to toss Jesus to his death from the top of the hill.
"But he passing through the midst of them went his way,..." (Luke 4:30)
I guess every time I read this passage I wonder what exactly happened: how did Jesus pass through and escape their plans? Today I read the commentary on this verse from Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible. He writes:
"Passing through the midst of them - Either he (Jesus) shut their eyes so that they could not see him; or he so overawed them by his power as to leave them no strength to perform their murderous purpose.
The man Christ Jesus was immortal till his time came; and all his messengers are immortal till their work is done."
This thought brings a quiet confidence to the hearts of the saints: to consider we are in the hands of Almighty God brings me a sense of peace and strength independent of my circumstances.
David writes by the Holy Spirit:
"My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me." (Psalm 31:15)
The days we are living through have been challenging and even overwhelming. I was encouraged by Clarke's notes on Luke 4:30, and I am convinced that like David, my times are in the mighty hand of the Living God.
If you are struggling with the circumstances of life today, I pray this might encourage you as well. Looking at our circumstances will rob us of courage & our strength. Look up! Look to Jesus and take courage. Walk close with God today and remember that because of Jesus Christ, we have a fantastic future ahead of us.
Until our work is done.
Paul.
