Daily Bible Reading — Sustained By God’s Word Of HopeSample

  

April 16

Introduction

The religious leaders question Jesus about paying taxes, about rising from death, and about the Messiah. Jesus warns his followers to be on guard against those who display false piety while taking advantage of society’s most vulnerable members. 

Today’s Scripture: Luke 20:25 (GNT)

Jesus said, “Well, then, pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and pay to God what belongs to God.”

Today’s Reading 

Luke 20:19-47

Reflect

How does Jesus respond to those who question him about the payment of taxes (verses 19-26)? About rising from death? About the Messiah? Reread verses 45-47. The behavior of those who enjoy high status is contrasted with those who are disadvantaged. How does Jesus describe the teachers of the Law? What does their behavior indicate about their regard for justice and concern for society’s poor? How do you “pay to God what belongs to God”?

Pray

Lord God, everything belongs to you, and I praise and thank you for your blessings. Open my eyes and heart to the needs of those I encounter today and teach me to share my resources lovingly with a spirit of generosity. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those living in poverty

Tomorrow’s Reading

Luke 22:1-30: Jesus eats the Passover meal with his disciples.