A Ready Student
- Melanie DiLeo
- Jan 3
- 2 min read
We read our Bibles daily, right? Or at the least, we should frequently. Upon reading, do we absorb Christ’s messages, or are we merely mindlessly reading…our thoughts elsewhere?
The truth is that The Bible is meant to be studied and reflected upon. This total scriptural immersion helps one pursue the godly thought and action presented. Jesus instructed his followers through the use of parables (lessons in a story format). His Apostles were often confused by the meanings of these teachings. In the parable of leaven bread, Jesus spoke of the intent of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Jesus proclaimed these words upon noting his follower’s confusion:
Matthew 16:11-12 KJV
11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spoke it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Saduccees.
12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.
Thru the means of basic principles, told in story format, Jesus’ tales would then be converted into spiritual teachings. Parables encouraged Jesus’ followers to dig deep into these sayings and draw out their truths. As he gave instruction, he provided a blueprint for living a righteous life.
Just as his followers wondered at these parable’s meanings, so should we reflect upon them in terms of our own lives. While examining the tale of The Prodigal Son, we should search out its truth. Upon reflection, we realize that this parable is a metaphor regarding Christ’s love for his children.
Jesus is represented by the forgiving father rejoicing at his estranged son’s arrival. We too, sinners, sometimes wander away from Christ. Feeling shame, we consider ourselves unworthy of his love. However, Jesus welcomes us back with open arms:
Luke 15:24 KJV
24 For this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
And this is precisely how Jesus feels when we return to him.
-Melanie DiLeo
Amen. Scripture isn’t meant to be skimmed like a checklist, but wrestled with, reflected on, and allowed to expose our hearts so we can truly understand the depth of Christ’s love and grace toward us.