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Glory to ...who?
Rod ShimabukuroAnd great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them,so that the crowd wondered, when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled healthy, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they glorified the God of Israel. Matthew 15:30-31
It’s noted among scholars that Matthew’s gospel account focused on establishing the identity of Jesus as God’s King. That Jesus is the Messaiah sent from the Father to save His people, not just spiritually, but socially. The miracles of Jesus was not merely to provide healing, sustenance and forgiveness of sins. The glory of God was Jesus’ focus. To call the Jews attention to see, know and glorify the God of Israel - through Jesus.
In talking to a handicapped person, they shared that their goal wasn’t healing of their physical disability. Their need was internal. Spiritual. Emotional. Not physical. Jesus does heal - I believe that. I believe Him and I will continue to pray for miracles. For Jesus to manifest His power in healing the lame, blind, crippled, mute, etc.
I feel like God is checking my motives. Do I really desire for people to know and glorify God? Or give attention to me? I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to be recognized, noticed, applauded.
Sometimes I feel like us Christians hide behind the facade of "giving God glory" - while gloating in their gifts, accomplishments, talents, results. Our culture is notable for highlighting attendance and accolades. I must watch my own carnal appetites and mask to “glorify the God of Israel” while calling attention to “my or the churches successes!”
Oh God....I repent for my self seeking, self centered, applause seeking, fleshly desires. I mask them well at times. But I want to be exposed - to come out from hiding. Thank You for strong, God fearing conviction that exposes my wicked heart. I do love You and You’ve placed in me, a desire to sincerely glorify You!
