S. Matthew 5:12, 17 (NIV) “When Jesus heart that John had been put in prison, He withdrew to Galilee…. From that time on Jesus began to preach, ‘Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven has come near.’”
O. Jesus had just experienced a season of overcoming temptation and being strengthened by God (through angels). He was ready to begin His public ministry in proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom. He did not let the news of John’s imprisonment detain Him - rather, He began His public ministry - preaching the Good News and calling others to do the same. - Jesus was focused through the temptations. Further, it doesn’t appear He made efforts to free John, rather, He focused on the proclamation of the Gospel to others.
A. I think it’s important for me to keep my spiritual focus and not allow myself to fall into temptation. Further, I think that I must be cautious in geting caught up in the social and political concerns of the day and to continue to prioritize the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (The Apostle Paul would later encourage and caution Timothy about getting “entangled” in the civil affairs when you are called to be a soldier for Christ - 2 Timothy 2:4).
P. Thank you Father for this word today. Thank you Jesus for your example through times of testing and social concerns. Holy Spirit fill me and guide me to keep my spiritual focus and priority in proclaiming your word, in Jesus’ name!
