Read Matthew 13 – Fresh fish today! I like parables. I like it when a picture is painted with words to illustrate a truth. I have grown immensely from each of these parables, but today, the Holy Spirit is drawing my heart closest to The Parable of the Net.
“Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away.” :47-48
I once had a piece of halibut in Alaska that was so good I think I cried! It sat like warm butter on my tongue, with just a hint of sweetness. I could hardly chew and swallow because I wanted the perfection to last. I am certain that fish was swimming in the sea just hours before he made it to my plate. I was grateful to experience him.
I’ve also brought fish home from the market only to realize it was bad fish. It looked delicious in the market, but even through the wrapping it stunk up the kitchen. It went straight to the garbage. It was not worthy of being in my house, much less served to my family.
Beloved, we love people who are bad fish, they may look good on the outside, but their hearts are not redeemed. They will be cast down into the fiery furnace. No one likes to think of themselves in this way, but Jesus is not fooled. A bad fish reeks of foulness and a good fish is a delight in every way.
Now, imagine that you and I are having a conversation. We have both just read Chapter 13, and now we get to talk about what hit home. Beloved, that is what I imagine when I post… that the chapter stirs up something in your heart, and that seeing what was stirred in mine inspires you to share as well with whomever is around you. May your joy keep you fresh and inspire those around you to seek Jesus for themselves.
Judy in the Sky 