5.7 The Dawn of Hope

Matthew 13:43 "Then THE RIGHTEOUS WILL SHINE FORTH AS THE SUN in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear."

The day after Jesus died on the cross, the disciples hid in fear. They were confused, frightened, weary, and numb. The tomb contained the lifeless body of the Savior. It might as well have held the dreams of the disciples as well.
They had no idea that the next morning, God would bring about the most amazing miracle in the history of the world. Hope was about to dawn with the resurrection of Jesus.

And it’s not just a story. On the third day, Jesus Christ arose from the dead. The grave could not hold Him. He burst forth into light and life – defeating death forever. He gave hope to anyone who would put their trust in Him.

The ultimate conclusion.

Our parable today gives the incredible conclusion – that all who trust in Jesus will shine forth with Him in the Kingdom of God our Father.

There we will see Him as He is. We will enjoy a relationship with God and fully experience His love.

This is how the game of life ends – those who trust in Jesus will shine with Him as the sun – those who do not trust in Him will be forever separated.

He who has ears, let him hear.

Jesus ends this parable with an important command – He who has ears, let him hear. In other words, pay attention to the truths contained in this parable.

Take time to listen to these truths and examine yourself to be certain you are in the faith. Don’t just assume – but as Paul reminds the church – examine yourself.
Pray, pray, pray, and then pray

With so much at stake – we must be willing to step out of the comfort zone and plant seeds of faith. We know the Lord is the one who gives life and causes the growth – we plant the seed. And we should do so with a sense of urgency. Pray toward this end, praying that the Lord opens opportunities and uses you in the work of His Kingdom field.

Prayer prompts and discussion starters:

• Thank the Lord for giving the hope of heaven to all who truly trust in Him.
• Examine yourself – listen to the truths in this parable and ask the Lord to show you your true standing with Him.
• Anticipate the day of harvest – when God will gather His own to be with Him. Pray to be fully hoping in Christ on that great day.
• Pray for those who have never really trusted in Him – that they will trust.
• Pray for an attitude of boldness from the Lord to share truth with those who don’t know it.
• Pray for the strength and passion to point people to Jesus daily.