Christmas With Compassion | Day 02
Day 02 - Tuesday, December 03
Read Matthew 9:9-13
Highlight
Tax collectors were appointed by the Romans to collect the tax revenue in a certain area. The reputation of a tax collector was one of greed and indulgence. They often overcharged people and lived a life of luxury off of the profits. Tax collectors were often hated by the Jews, because of their reputation and their support of Rome. Therefore, when Jesus chose Matthew as a disciple, it was a risky decision. Not because Matthew was a bad guy, but because his reputation would have made Jesus look bad. Yet, Jesus cared more for Matthew and his friends, than what others thought. Jesus knew Matthew’s heart and knew he would be willing to give up his life of luxury to follow Him.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
Read Matthew 9:9-13
Highlight
Tax collectors were appointed by the Romans to collect the tax revenue in a certain area. The reputation of a tax collector was one of greed and indulgence. They often overcharged people and lived a life of luxury off of the profits. Tax collectors were often hated by the Jews, because of their reputation and their support of Rome. Therefore, when Jesus chose Matthew as a disciple, it was a risky decision. Not because Matthew was a bad guy, but because his reputation would have made Jesus look bad. Yet, Jesus cared more for Matthew and his friends, than what others thought. Jesus knew Matthew’s heart and knew he would be willing to give up his life of luxury to follow Him.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).
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