Today’s Reading: Matthew 21:23-46
People change their minds all the time. One day, a girl says “I love my boyfriend.” Three days later, she changes her Facebook relationship status to “single.” You say “Oh no, what happened?” She says “I changed my mind. I’m not in love with him.” Or you go out to buy some Chinese takeaway and end up coming home with pizza because you changed your mind. Changing your mind is sometimes the right thing to do. Other times, it gets you in trouble.
Today we’re going to find out that if you want to be right with God, there has to be a change of mind! In Matthew 21, Jesus gives the parable of the two sons. The first son represents Israel’s sinners who change their minds and turn to God, but the second son represents Israel’s hypocritical leaders. They make a big production about saying yes to the Father: “Yes, I will keep all 613 commandments! Yes, I will give 10% of my income to the temple. Yes, I will visit the elderly and pray for the sick.” They say all the right things, but they refuse to DO the right thing by accepting Christ as their Saviour! They brag about how religious they are, but they won’t lift a finger to help the hungry, the hurting or the hopeless.
How many of you get frustrated when your kids don’t do what you want them to do? Then why do we act this way to God who gives us everything in Christ? Whether you are 9 years old or 90 years old, it’s not too late to change your mind, repent and do what God wants. Jesus loves you so much. Ask Him to be the Lord of your life, and let’s fulfil our calling to love and serve others.
Reflection
Is there something you need to leave go of and change?
Prayer
Father, Thank You for receiving us when we repent and turn back to You. Help us not to be stubborn, but lead by the Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen