The Readings teach us that experiences of Jesus /Holy Spirit open our spiritual eyes so we can see things our minds cannot grasp. Bartimaeus, Paul and Job all heard the voice of God and were able to understand things they could not figure out in their heads. This is why there is a disconnect between those who have experienced Jesus / Holy Spirit and those who have not.
The Readings open our eyes to an Epiphany moment of realizing how dangerous healing and deliverance ministry can be. There is a wonderful line in C.S. Lewis’s story "Prince Caspian". This is a children's story that deals with the struggle between good and evil. Jesus is represented as a lion. Lucy, the youngest girl asks, "is he dangerous?". The reply comes back "Of course he's dangerous". The Gospel reveals a very dangerous side of Jesus that has been almost lost in our time: (One of my manuscripts 7 lost spiritual truths)
· Isaiah reminds us that spiritual authority comes from God and is dangerous
· Paul warns us to be careful in our spiritual lives
· Jesus teaches us how spiritual authority works in healing and deliverance ministry
1. Spiritual authority comes from God
The parable of the Unmerciful Servant is a reminder of who we are, whose we are and what is expected of us. The readings remind us that like the Hebrews we have been rescued by God, are part of His Kingdom and under divine judgement. We are servants and not ‘the boss of ourselves’. We will be judged by our love of Jesus and our neighbour. Forgiveness and mercy from the heart is a test of that love.
1. We are challenged to remember who we are
