Kyle’s Bible Journal Oct. 29 – Nov. 5

Mark 4:10-11 When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables

Afterwards, they asked Jesus about the parables. It seems a bit secretive to exclude the multitudes from knowing the meanings of the parable, or even cruel—effectively keeping them from salvation.

But that’s not the truth. Jesus invites us in with his parables, and it’s up to us to pursue the mystery and learn more. To ask Jesus about the parable. To hear and then to gain understanding.

How many “parables” are there in the Bible, and in our lives, that are unexplained, and do we take the time to ask Jesus about them? Do we take the time to listen and work towards understanding? Or do we walk away? Do we harden our hearts and let satan take the seed? Do we get discouraged by hardship and give up? Do we distract ourselves with money and work? Or do we come back to Jesus and ask him, what does it mean?

Many Christians wonder whether they are good enough, if they are truly chosen. But we are chosen when we choose him. The difference between being chosen and not chosen is a question of self choice.

Do I choose to pursue God?

So many people don’t choose. Many walk away. But the ones who stay, the ones who wonder, the ones who ask—they are choosing to follow Jesus. And in the choosing, they are chosen.