Day 245 - Matthew 19–21 Psalm 51

Jesus shows us that when God calls you, every moment matters. From the very start of His ministry to the final days before the cross, He lived with focus and urgency. He didn’t waste time, but moved with purpose, teaching, healing, and showing God’s love everywhere He went. History and the Gospels show that His public ministry only lasted about three years. In that short span, He trained disciples, healed the sick, taught crowds, raised the dead, and revealed God’s kingdom. He accomplished in three years what shaped the entire world for thousands of years to come. In just a short time Jesus changed it all, He healed the sick and gave the blind their sight. He fed the crowds with love both great and small, And filled sad hearts with hope and new delight. In three short years so much He chose to teach, He spoke of heaven, peace, and God’s own way. He calmed the storm with just His voice and reach, And showed the path to life that lasts each day. The children came, He welcomed every one, The poor found light and kindness in His care. His works were gifts that could not be undone, His life was a truth He wanted all to share. Though time was brief, His mission still lives on, For through His love God’s victory was won. The lesson for us is clear: from the moment God calls you until the moment your work is done, live with purpose. In Matthew 19, Jesus teaches that following Him means choosing God’s ways above everything else. He explains that marriage is meant to be a lifelong promise and welcomes little children, showing that the kingdom of God belongs to hearts that are simple and trusting. A rich young man comes to Him, wanting eternal life, but walks away sad when asked to give up his wealth. Jesus reminds His disciples that while it’s impossible for people to save themselves, nothing is impossible with God. In Matthew 20, Jesus tells a story about workers in a vineyard who all receive the same reward, teaching that God’s generosity doesn’t follow human math. He then predicts His death and resurrection, showing that His love will go to the very end. When two disciples ask for special positions of honor, Jesus gently teaches that greatness in His kingdom is about serving others. On His way, He heals two blind men who call out to Him, showing that He notices anyone who cries for help. It shows us that with Jesus, everyone is invited, everyone matters. In Matthew 21, as Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, crowds shout joyfully, recognizing Him as the promised King. He goes into the temple and clears out the sellers, making space for prayer and worship. Jesus then tells parables that challenge the religious leaders, making it clear that God wants real obedience and love, not empty words. Psalm 51 is a heartfelt prayer of King David after he realized how deeply he needed God’s forgiveness. He asks God to wash him clean, give him a new heart, and restore his joy. Like David, we can come to God when we feel broken or guilty, knowing that He is full of mercy and ready to make us new.