Friday of the 2nd Week of Lent. Bible Study: Genesis 37:3-28, Psalm 105 and Matthew 21:33-46

“Here comes this dreamer. Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits; then we shall say that a wild beast has devoured him, and we shall see what will become of his dreams.” (Genesis 37:19-20) 

The parable of the householder who planted a vineyard teaches us a lesson; that God expects us to be fruitful. He knows what we are made of. If the householder had not planted rich seeds, he would not send people to ask for the fruits. God demands our fruits because he knows we can deliver.

No man is without talents, no one is cheated in terms of gifts, you may notice that of others but just know that you too are a bundle of potentials. God has planted a vineyard in you and He expects to see your fruits.

Some people fail to notice what they have so they focus all their energies on those of others. They become jealous and start seeking for ways to quench the light of others. This was the sad reality with Joseph and his brothers.

Am I fighting against others out of jealousy? Do I feel they are more blessed than myself? Do I sometimes fall into the error of comparing myself with others, trying to measure up, trying to pull them down?

Remember that both the razor blade and the axe can cut but while the razor cannot cut trees, the axe cannot shave beards. I would be doing a great disservice to God if I as a razor blade is jealous of the axe because of its unique abilities.

As the tenants killed the son of the householder, so did the brothers of Joseph conspire to sell him to the Medianites. Little did they know that God knows how to write straight on crooked lines, their wickedness could not stop the dream from becoming a reality.

Are you a victim of jealousy? Don’t be discouraged. Don’t give up. Don’t begin to hide your talents because of those trying to pull you down. Regardless of the stumbling blocks on your way, remain motivated, keep bearing fruits; keep shining. If you cannot fly, then run, if you cannot run, then walk, if you cannot walk, crawl. If they throw a stone at you, build a house with it. If they throw hot water on you, use it to cook. Don’t give up and never become jealous of anyone.

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, help me to use all the talents and gifts you have placed within me that when I die, I would return to you completely empty. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you.