A Long Storytelling Afternoon with Jesus
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables. Matthew 13:1-3
All Jesus did that day was tell stories—a long storytelling afternoon. His storytelling fulfilled the prophecy:
I will open my mouth and tell stories;
I will bring out into the open
things hidden since the world’s first day.
Today these passages seemed more alive to me, possibly because I was sitting on the bank of the river while reading them. It was easy to picture the whole scene in my mind and wonder how amazing it would have been to be right there with Jesus for a long storytelling afternoon.
To my surprise when I finished reading Matthew 13 and the study material that I had to go with it, over two hours had passed by. My notebook was filled with thoughts and truths that I didn’t want to forget.
While teaching through several parables Jesus would say, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Later His disciples asked Him to explain the meanings, which He did. Parables would compare something familiar to something unfamiliar, helping those who were listening to understand spiritual truth by using everyday objects and relationships as illustrations. Jesus’ parables drew willing listeners into discovering truth, while at the same time concealing truth from those too lazy or too stubborn to see it. To those who are honestly searching, the truth becomes clear. (Life App. Study Bible)
When Jesus taught in parables, He was looking for willing listeners. Those who would listen with intention and seek out understanding. Many came to see miracles and be feed, but Jesus wanted those who were seeking Him and the message of salvation He was bringing.
What would be your desire if you attended a long storytelling afternoon with Jesus? Would you even attend?
We can ask the same questions of our own devotional time with Jesus. What do I hope to learn from our time together? Am I prepared to listen? Am I willing to spend time with Him? When the disciples asked Jesus to explain the parables, He did. He will do the same for you if you ask.
Lord, open my mind to understand Your Word. Thank you for the time that I get to spend with You. Thank you for desiring to teach me. May we have many long storytelling afternoons together. In Jesus’ name, amen.
