As soon as He was alone, His followers, along with the twelve, began asking Him about the parables. And He was saying to them, “To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God, but those who are outside get everything in parables, so that while seeing, they may see and not perceive, and while hearing, they may hear and not understand, otherwise they might return and be forgiven.” Mark 3:10-12
When you work on Wall Street, you are not supposed to trade on inside information. But, Jesus wants to give his followers inside information and he expects us to act upon it. Why would Jesus frame up so much of His teaching in parables, knowing that many would not perceive and understand? Doesn’t He want everyone to return to God and be forgiven? Of course, He does. He is the one who invites all who are weary and heavy laden to come to Him. But, we must come on His terms, not ours. He says everyone who seeks, will find. So what is the deal? Commitment! Obedience! While many were willing to follow Him at a distance, the disciples were closer and committed. They left their nets to follow Him. And He gave them inside information.
How about me? Am I close enough to Him to receive inside information? Do I understand God’s word, His will and His ways?
God, thank you for Your goodness and the invitation to know You in such a personal way. Please disclose what You are doing so that I might step out and serve You in profound ways.
