Matthew 8:4
‘And Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one; but go, show yourself to the priest and present the offering that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”’
This verse mystified me for a long time. I would have thought Jesus wanted good press. It would have meant more souls being saved or healed. I now think I know why He said this.
Jesus didn’t come to bring in His kingdom at His first visitation. While I knew that, what I missed was Jesus’ trust in God. Jesus knew that God loves all and reaches out to all. The Father also connects with those who are seeking Him. Jesus was aware that God has them. He didn’t have to worry about them.
John 14:31 gives us some insight in Jesus. “But I do exactly what the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Get up! Let us go on from here.” He went through His days like we do. He didn’t know what was coming, but trusted the Father for guidance. He didn’t heal or help everyone He encountered. Only those who God prompted Him to help.
If Jesus’ mission wasn’t to bring in His kingdom now what was His goal? It was to die for sins and to train the twelve. There were miracles and healing. The miracles were to legitimize who He was.
My problem was that I was trusting my logic. I’ve learned not to do that. Proverbs 3:5,6 is what I should have been doing, “Trust in the Lord with all your hear and lean not on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” True, we live our lives according to the bible, but many decisions that must be made aren’t biblical, so we use our own understanding. He gives guidance in certain areas. We do what we think is right, but often will bump into closed doors. We ask Him for wisdom and go from there. I believe that’s how Jesus walked.
Jesus knew He wasn’t to set up His kingdom now. That’s why He told the person in today’s passage not to tell anyone. He didn’t want the crowds. There would come times for them, just not all the time.
Thank You for Your guidance and Your ways. Your ways are higher and better. Help us to look to You and follow You.