Readings: Psalm 119:111 and Matthew 13:1-2

Psalm 119:111 – “Your laws are my possession forever because they are my heart’s joy.”

In the opening verses of Matthew 13, Jesus heads out to the lake. We see that a large crowd came and gathered around Jesus. The lake can be a fun place to go, especially on a warm day. But the crowd was there because Jesus was there. He was the attraction.

Today social media alerts us to where our favorite food truck is that day or to who is having a flash sale that we do not want to miss. If we want to grab a coffee with a friend, a quick text or phone call can set that up. As we remember that almost all communication in Jesus’ day was by word of mouth, we have to wonder what drew a large crowd to the lake. For that matter, how did word of Jesus spread at all?

Verse 111 of Psalm 119 reads, “Your laws are my possession forever because they are my heart’s joy.” The psalmist loved God’s laws because they brought joy to his or her life. They want to hold onto this joy forever. God’s instruction, living by God’s will and way, this brings joy to our hearts as well. Do others see it or feel it in your life? Does our daily walk with Jesus and the Spirit lead us to overflow with joy (and love, hope, peace…)? I think those touched by Jesus spiritually and/or physically overflowed with joy because of how their encounter with Christ changed their lives. These stories are what drew the crowds to Jesus. May it be so for you and for me as well.

Prayer: Lord God, fill us with your joy today. Fill us so full that others sense it, see it, want it. Prepare us to respond when we are asked about our joy. Give us the words of witness that draw others in, that attract others to Jesus Christ. Amen.