Jesus taught in parables. He was a storyteller like me, but there is where the similarity ends.
My problem with the parables is I always identify with the guy who should act or know better. I feel like Jesus is talking to me about my own failings. I’m the guy who passes up somebody who is in trouble, thinks I’m better than the tax collector, or is the good brother who feels like the screw-up is getting my father’s favor once gain. Maybe not totally, but in a lot of respects.
I’d like to think I’d do better, but deep inside where I’d like no one to go, I understand the recipient of Jesus’s stories. I suspect we all do, and that’s why they have stood the test of time.
My only hope is that like the disciples I take the messages to heart and indeed “Listen.” In that hope is my salvation.
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