How can we apply Jesus' example of blessing others in our daily lives? The Moment Jesus Blessed His Disciples “Then He led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up His hands, He blessed them.” (Luke 24:50) What We Learn from This Scene • A literal, historical act: the risen Lord physically raises His hands and speaks blessing. • A final gesture before His ascension, showing that life under His lordship begins and ends in blessing. • A model: if our Savior’s last earthly act was to bless, ours can be to keep blessing. Blessing Is Our Everyday Calling • Genesis 12:2 – God blesses Abraham so he “will be a blessing”; the pattern continues in Christ. • Acts 3:26 – “God, having raised up His Servant, sent Him to bless you.” As recipients, we become conduits. • 1 Peter 3:9 – “...but on the contrary bless, because to this you were called...” Practical Ways to Bless Others Daily 1. Words that Build – Ephesians 4:29: speak “only what is helpful for building up”. – Proverbs 16:24: gracious words bring sweetness and healing. – Simple practices: give sincere encouragement, thank people by name, send notes or texts of Scripture. 2. Actions that Serve – Galatians 5:13: “serve one another in love.” – Look for chores to shoulder, errands to run, meals to prepare. – Small, unnoticed deeds mirror Jesus washing feet (John 13:14-15). 3. Presence that Comforts – Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” – Show up at hospital rooms, funerals, ballgames, graduations. – Listen more than you speak; your nearness is a blessing. 4. Prayer that Covers – Numbers 6:24-26: speak the priestly blessing over family, friends, church. – 1 Timothy 2:1: lift up “petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings” for all people. – Keep a list; text someone when you’ve prayed for them. 5. Resources that Refresh – Proverbs 11:25: “the one who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” – Share finances, groceries, tools, time, skills. – Practice quiet generosity (Matthew 6:3-4) so the focus stays on God’s kindness. Guarding the Heart Behind the Blessing • Romans 12:14 warns, “bless and do not curse.” Refuse retaliation; choose goodwill. • Matthew 5:44 stretches us to bless even those who oppose us, reflecting divine love. • Gratitude fuels blessing: recall daily the grace you’ve received (Psalm 103:2). Living Under Jesus’ Raised Hands • His blessing in Luke 24:50 is still effective—He intercedes for us now (Hebrews 7:25). • Rest in that benediction, then step out to echo it. • Each lifted hand, spoken word, shared gift becomes a small reenactment of Bethany, pointing others to the One who blessed first and blesses forever. |
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