Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.

Matthew 4:17 NRSV

Our memory verse for the week is Jesus’ first sermon. This short sentence is packed with so much meaning. Interestingly enough, it is also the same sermon preached by John the Baptist in Matthew 3:2. The focus of Matthew’s gospel seems to be how Jesus is the tour guide, prime example, and divine initiator of this kingdom in which God reigns. And what we see quickly is that God’s glory will not be aimed at a place (the Temple in Jerusalem) but a people (followers of Jesus).

God’s goodness and mercy…aimed at humanity. Just let that sink in for a moment. May we slow down enough to receive and be courageous enough to tell others.

Jesus Knows Best sermon from this past weekend can be found here.