Change is possible because Divine Love bridged the gap between his peoples’ rebellious pride and depravity and their willing obedience.  God is indeed with us!

Luci Shaw, From God With Us: Rediscovering the Meaning of Christmas

Matthew 21:28-32     The Message (MSG)

The Story of Two Sons

"Tell me what you think of this story: A man had two sons. He went up to the first and said, 'Son, go out for the day and work in the vineyard.'

"The son answered, 'I don't want to.' Later on he thought better of it and went.

"The father gave the same command to the second son. He answered, 'Sure, glad to.' But he never went.

"Which of the two sons did what the father asked?"

  They said, "The first."

   Jesus said, "Yes, and I tell you that crooks and whores are going to precede you into God's kingdom. John came to you showing you the right road. You turned up your noses at him, but the crooks and whores believed him. Even when you saw their changed lives, you didn't care enough to change and believe him.

·         What is hard for you to believe about God?

·         How might you live in “pretend obedience?” saying yes, but responding instead with indifference, ignoring, passively refusing what is being invited?  What keeps you “stuck” in the “no?”

·         There is room for delayed obedience.  Have you experienced changing your mind from unwilling to willing?  What kind of process was this for you?

·         What has changed in you so that you “care” enough to respond differently to God?

·         Tonight, are you willing to listen deeply and obey?