In what ways can we respond to God's call to gather under His care? A Heart That Still Calls “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her! How often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!” — Luke 13:34 Jesus’ words are not merely historical; they reveal an ever-present longing. He speaks as the faithful Shepherd who literally desires to shelter His people. His compassion presses the same invitation on us today. What It Means to Be “Gathered Under His Wings” • Shelter: Psalm 91:4 — “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge.” • Belonging: John 10:27 — “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Assurance: Matthew 23:37 repeats the same image, showing His consistency and earnestness. To embrace that covering is to step into a place of security, guidance, and covenant love. Ways We Can Respond Willingly 1. Repent and Trust • Accept His diagnosis of our sin (Luke 13:3). • Turn and believe that His cross fully atones (1 Peter 2:24). 2. Draw Near Habitually • Daily Scripture intake (John 15:7). • Ongoing prayer that listens as well as speaks (Philippians 4:6-7). 3. Commit to Christ’s Flock • Regular corporate worship (Hebrews 10:25). • Mutual care and accountability (Acts 2:42-47). 4. Rest Beneath His Sovereignty • Cast anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). • Receive His peace as a settled fact, not a fleeting feeling (John 14:27). 5. Extend the Invitation to Others • Speak the gospel with gentleness and clarity (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Reflect His protecting love through practical service (Galatians 6:9-10). Living Under His Wings—Daily Practices • Morning surrender: “Lord, my life is Yours today.” • Midday check-in: pause, realign thoughts with His promises. • Evening gratitude: recount specific ways He sheltered you. • Weekly fellowship rhythms: gather in small group, serve in church, partake in communion. • Seasonal reflection: evaluate spiritual health, celebrate growth, course-correct where necessary. The Cost of Unwillingness Luke 13:34 ends with the sobering phrase, “but you were unwilling.” Unwilling hearts miss the protection and joy He freely offers, facing life exposed and eternity unreconciled (John 3:36). He honors the dignity of choice; reluctance bears real consequences. The Ongoing Invitation His call echoes every day: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 Let us answer readily, draw close, and stay gathered under the wings that will never fail. |
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