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Matthew 13:47-14:3; Psalm 18:16-34; Proverbs 4:7-10.

Jesus finishes up His teaching about the kingdom of heaven saying everyone will be separated during the end of the world. Those belonging to Jesus will be taken to Him, those aligned with Satan will be cast out with him.

Then He says something I find truly interesting, "Those experts in Jewish law who are now my disciples have double treasures - from the Old Testament - from the New." What Jesus is saying is that those who have a good understanding of the Old Testament and the work of the Lord through His law, will now see that law fulfilled through the New Testament. Jesus didn't come to abolish the law, He came to turn peoples focus back on the relationship that the law is suppose to foster. Never forget that. Man has a nasty way of turning a relationship with God into a shallow, rule-abiding existence. We cut out common sense & good judgment (what the proverbs have been preaching) and replace it with strict obedience and vanity. It becomes all about looking better than everyone else. That's what the pharisees did, that's what a lot of people do today.

Even in Jesus' own village, the people were so used to their old way of doing things that they rejected and resented Jesus for attempting to teach them the RIGHT way. So often we over look the significant because we refuse to believe it could happen in such a way. Jesus was a poor carpenter. His family was well known in the community. The people were amazed at His knowledge. Then they discarded it as insolence since a man of Jesus' standing simply couldn't know what He was talking about. Don't blind yourself to the possibilities of God's work. He never chooses the man that others would - He's not looking for outward beauty, popularity, or wealth. God is looking for a humble heart that is willing to sacrifice and do the awkward, uncool thing in order to bring about healing and faith.

So, are you ready to be awkward? Are you ready to get rid of the superficial relationship, the rash judgments, and the ambitious pride? Remember - awkward is awesome.