“Jesus replied, ‘Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.’” – Matthew 21:21-22
“Then he said to them, ‘Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” – Matthew 22:21
Waking up to a city still buzzing from the events at the Temple the day before, Eliam felt a hunger for understanding that drew him back to the heart of Jerusalem. He had heard that Jesus would be teaching in the temple again, and after yesterday’s dramatic cleansing, Eliam couldn’t help but wonder what wisdom and challenges today would bring.
As he arrived, Eliam found Jesus in the midst of a heated debate with the Pharisees and Sadducees. They were attempting to trap Jesus with their questions, but with each reply, Jesus not only evaded their snares but also illuminated deep truths about faith, authority, and the kingdom of God.
One parable followed another, each a treasure trove of insight. Eliam listened intently as Jesus spoke of the two sons, the wicked tenants, and the wedding banquet. Each story unfolded layers of meaning, revealing truths about obedience, stewardship, and readiness for the kingdom that Eliam had never considered.
The lesson that struck Eliam most was the parable of the ten virgins, which underscored the importance of being prepared for the coming of the kingdom. The imagery of the lamps and oil resonated with him, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and readiness in faith—a lesson Eliam felt deeply in his soul.
But it was Jesus’s answer to the question about paying taxes to Caesar that left the most significant mark on Eliam. “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” This simple yet profound statement spoke volumes about the distinct realms of earthly authority and divine sovereignty. It challenged Eliam to consider what he was rendering unto God versus what he was giving to the world.
The day was a whirlwind of teaching, conflict, and revelation. The authorities were visibly agitated, their power and control challenged by the wisdom and authority of Jesus’s words. Yet, the people listened with rapt attention, their hearts open to the transformative message Jesus brought.
As the sun began to set and the crowds dispersed, Eliam sat alone, pondering the day’s lessons. He was beginning to see Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet but as the very embodiment of God’s kingdom on earth. The parables had painted a picture of a reality far beyond the physical world, a kingdom not of conquest and dominion but of humility, service, and love.
Eliam realized that understanding and living out these teachings would require a transformation of heart and mind. The kingdom of God was not something to be observed from afar but to be actively prepared for and participated in. This realization filled Eliam with both excitement and trepidation. The path ahead seemed daunting, yet he felt an unwavering resolve to follow, to learn, and to grow.
As he made his way home, Eliam knew that Tuesday’s lessons would linger in his heart and mind, shaping his journey in ways he could not yet fully understand. He looked forward to the days ahead, eager to continue walking this path of discovery and transformation.
Join us tomorrow as Eliam continues his journey through Holy Week, each day uncovering the profound depth and beauty of Jesus’s teachings and their implications for his life and ours.
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