Devotionals

Hate Parents, Children, Wife?

by Robert [Bob] Schaetzle Sr. 
11/26/21
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                        Hate Parents, Children, Wife?
                        By Robert Schaetzle

 “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:26 RSV

Times we might read a verse or passage that don’t make sense. I recall some time ago in our Sunday School class, I was sharing how we’re to ‘put Christ first.’ I presented  this particular verse before our class and many were stunned and confused.

The truth of the matter, this verse is what is called a ‘Hebrew Idiom.’  That is, its meaning is not as it sounds. Derived from conjoined interruption. It’s meaning cannot be derived from what it appears. Mathew 5:29 summarily, shares another idiom.

“ If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell”.

Should I feel a bit covetous by looking at a new car I don’t need and can’t afford, I’m not going to poke my eye out.

But recognize; when we purpose to love Christ first, and foremost, even more than our precious loved ones, we’re less apt to make an idol to those we love so dearly. That’s the point our Lord is telling us. Before the caring love of our own, putting Christ first, God will actually enable us, to grow a deeper love in responsibility for them.

I’ve recognized this more and more these last three years as I purpose to seek the power of God’s leading for me, caring for my wife in her challenge with cancer. Thank You Lord!  

Robert serves in a Sharing and Caring Ministry