The Sermon on the Mount whispers to us.

It can only be heard if we are listening closely.

Really listening.

Sitting at the feet of Jesus, staring intently at his face, hanging on every word.

Listening.  

Mesmerized by his wisdom. Captivated by his love.

Listening.

Then, and only then, will we hear it.

Quietly summoning us.

Jesus’ words in the book of Matthew are more than just ethical teachings on how to get into heaven.

But if we don’t listen, that is all we will hear: a christian to-do list.

We miss the best part of the story.

If we dare to listen, we hear beyond the obligation to do good.

It whispers of more.

Beckoning us to a life outside of the do’s and don’ts.

Inviting us to swim in water that is deep.

Calling us to walk the path less traveled.

Drawing us out to the edge.

Sold out for Jesus.

Devoted in mind and heart.

Radical in thought and action.

Overflowing with the power of the Spirit.

It whispers of grace.

Loving enemies, turning cheeks, keeping our promises, refusing lust, and forsaking anger.

Not because we are commanded to, but because we desire to.

Not out of a sense of duty, but because we are overwhelmingly indebted to God’s free gift.

Full of thankfulness for all he has done. 

The springs of our desperately grateful souls bursting forth the waters of obedience and sacrificial love.

It whispers of becoming.

Revealing our depravity.

Teaching us to be merciful, pure, and peaceful in our actions.

Making us people who yearn to love others the way God has loved us.  

Inspiring us to freely give what we have received.

Shining like bright lights in the darkest night.

Being salt in a world without taste.

Not because we have to.

Because we want to.

His Spirit a fountain within. Empowering us.

It whispers of life.

A call to be humble. To be thankful. To be righteous. To be loving.

To be completely sold out for the radical, life-changing love of God.

An invitation to run after Jesus with all that we have and all that we are.

If we listen to the whispers.

 

Dear friend,

I am on a journey of reckless abandon after Jesus and I want to invite you to join me. Let’s chase after him with everything we have, forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, pressing on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us (Philippians 3:13-14).

As always, I love hearing from you. Message me or comment below and I will get on my knees for you. Let’s do this faith journey together.

Blessings!

Minta