Diving into the story

Jesus constantly used stories when speaking to the crowds. For it had been

prophesied, “I will talk in parables; I will explain mysteries hidden since the

beginning of time.” 

-Matthew 13:34–35

I have two children, a six year old and a two year old.  Both of them love to hear stories.  Every night ends with them asking for just one more book.  It doesn’t matter if they have heard the story a hundred times already - they want to hear it again.  Even as adults, we are still drawn to a good story.  We look for the next book, TV series, or movie.  Kingdoms rise and fall… Rulers and empires may write their names in stone, but most of this is forgotten - unless you are a real history nerd. :). Instead, it is the stories that continue.  Whether it is Greek mythology or old stories from the Bible, these narratives continue to be past down and have influence.

Jesus was a storyteller.  We know from the Bible that Jesus frequently spoke in parables.  There is something about a story that walks along side us.  It often opens our hearts to something deeper.  It doesn’t tell us exactly what to believe, but it helps us expand our horizons.  I believe this was Christ’s goal.  He wanted us to dive into the mysteries of life and ponder the deeper meaning of grace, love, and the Kingdom of God.  

I love watching my two little boys engage in a story.  Sometimes all the questions they ask are really just a stall technique to avoid going to bed, but they are also both interested in the world.  They want someone to explain the world and help them dive a little deeper.  It is my hope that we could all look at the world with this kind of creativity and imagination.  I hope we can all follow the Spirit’s lead as we explore all the mysteries of God’s creation.  

Blessings,

Brian Ward