READING:
One-year plan: Genesis 7-9, Matthew 4
Two-year plan: Genesis 4:17–5:32, Matthew 2:1–15
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Here’s the way it often works in the four Gospels: Jesus teaches like no other, and He works miracles like they have not seen—then, as a result, people talk about Him. In today’s reading, we hear that news about Him spread throughout Syria (Matt 4:24) because of what He had done. His fame spread because people almost could not help but broadcast His presence. They may not have comprehended exactly who He was, and the Jews clearly did not understand what kind of Messiah He was, but many knew He was different. Many knew the baby in Bethlehem who was now the teacher of Israel was worth talking about.
That’s not to say that opposition to Jesus never developed, but it is to recognize a process that has not changed. Somebody talks about Him, and others want to know more. Some then follow Him, too, and the Word of God spreads. Where that process starts, though, is our own, personal, life-transforming encounter with the Son of God. We, like the four fishermen who became the first disciples, are to follow Him immediately and fully, without regard for what we give up. He is indeed worth the cost.
He is worth broadcasting.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: When was the last time you intentionally spread the news about Jesus?
PRAYER: “Jesus, I want to honor You with my life and my words. Help me to be faithful today.”
TOMORROW’S READINGS:
One-year plan: Genesis 10-13, Matthew 5:1-30
Two-year plan: Genesis 6–7, Matthew 2:16–3:12
