God’s Life-Giving Word of DiscipleshipSample

January 10

Introduction

Jesus heals a paralyzed man by forgiving his sins, and the teachers of the Law accuse Jesus of blasphemy. Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to be one of his disciples. Followers of John the Baptist approach Jesus and question him about fasting.

Today’s Key Scripture: Matthew 9:6a

[Jesus said:] “I will prove to you, then, that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”

Today’s Reading 

Matthew 9:1-17

Reflect

Sin occurs when people rebel against God and disobey God’s Law. The Law of Moses taught that sins could be taken away by the sacrifice of a young goat on the Day of Atonement (see Leviticus 16:1-22). In Jesus’s day, the teachers of the Law taught that only God could forgive sins. How did the teachers react when Jesus told the paralyzed man that his sins were forgiven?

What was Jesus’s response? What does today’s reading teach you about Jesus?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you have called me to be your disciple. Through you I have received forgiveness of my sins and life everlasting. As I seek your will for my life, strengthen my spirit and fill me with your everlasting love. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Wounded and paralyzed veterans

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 9:18-38: Jesus continues healing people throughout Galilee.