Different circumstances, different journeys but the same destination

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 24, 2023 | Matthew 19:10-12

KEY VERSE:

Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word but only those to whom it has been given. Matthew 19:11 (NIV)

MESSAGE: Following the discussion in the earlier verses on the issue of divorce and remarriage, the disciples of Jesus concluded that it is better not to marry; to avoid all this “trouble.” However, Jesus had to quickly put the discussion in perspective, and he made them understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all situation when it comes to a person getting married or not.

He also had to again refocus their minds on the main thing; The kingdom of Heaven. In other words, whether one marries or not, the focus is whether that decision will help further the cause of the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth or not.

It may surprise you to know that some cultures do not even have any form of cohabitation and shared responsibility that resembles marriage at all and therefore cannot be bothered with issues concerning divorce and remarriage. Musuo of South China, Nyimbe of Tibet and Nyar of India are examples of tribes of such cultures. Even, in societies and cultures where marriage is practised, there could be some who decide to go celibate and not marry, and they live their lives with that choice. They accept that stance and expect all to respect that. All people cannot be the same, doing the same things and having the same ideologies. The world would be a very boring place to live in if that was the case. Yet, all these must allure in favour of furthering the Kingdom of Heaven.

So, Jesus was pointing out that, the reason why these choices and predispositions would make sense and be relevant is if they are for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Matt 19:12c “for the sake of the kingdom of Heaven.”

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE

We all have different assignments here on earth, which places us in different circumstances. We are all on different journeys and paths to serving God’s purposes for our lives. Find your purpose and accept it; then you will be able to understand and accept the circumstances in which you find yourself and therefore make the most of it. All our journeys and circumstances must end in advancing the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth.

PRAYER Heavenly Father, thank you for your word to me today. Help me by your Holy Spirit to find your purpose for my life and guide me to make decisions that will help me to achieve your purpose for my life. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!