Persistence

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 22, 2023 | Matthew 19:1-2

KEY VERSE:

Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there. Matthew 19:2 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Jesus after teaching the people with parables, left and headed towards the place beyond the Jordan. According to recent bible maps, this journey is about 245 kilometres, which is quite a distance to travel on foot. It is estimated to be a 7-hour drive by bus and a 3 to 4-day journey on foot. The crowds that followed Jesus from Galilee to beyond the Jordan would comprise all sorts of people who needed a miracle of healing from the master. Some had to travel with him through the 4 days carrying their sick and demon-possessed, night and day persistently following.

There could be times when the disciples of Jesus played the role of “bodyguards” and tried to ward off some of the people to prevent or dissuade them from tagging along. Yet still most of the people kept following. They journeyed along until they had received what they came for. Many times, in our lives and Christian journey, we would have felt like turning back from something we so badly wanted when we started the journey. Occasionally, when it is not forthcoming, we feel like giving up. Most likely after a long period of fasting and prayer has been invested in the effort to reach that goal.

Those who followed Jesus from Galilee to the Jordan would have felt like giving up amidst all the challenges they would likely face throughout the 4-day journey. However, our key verse makes us understand that their steadfastness in continuing to follow Jesus paid off. Matthew 19:2b says “…and He healed them there.”

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE

There is always a price to pay for what you are looking for and there is always a mindset you must have to be able to reach the goal you seek to achieve. Are you willing to stay close with Jesus long enough and follow Him diligently and faithfully for what you are looking for? Your persistence and consistency in the face of trials and adversity will yield results in due time if you do not give up. Remember He rewards those who earnestly/diligently seek Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to be diligent in following Jesus. Please help me to emulate Christ’s consistency in the life He lived here on earth. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!