The Drama Triangle: Letting Go and Stepping Into Empowerment
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
How do we detox our minds from the thoughts of everything we think we’re missing out on? How do we focus on what we should be doing for our minds and bodies instead of falling into emotional traps? For years, I got caught up in unhealthy patterns—not just with food, but with my mindset. I used food to manage my stress and emotions. I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster, trying to “fix” everyone around me. It wasn’t until I began my health journey with Optavia and read Dr. Wayne Andersen’s Your LifeBook that I realized how much my mindset needed to change.
Dr. Andersen introduced me to the Drama Triangle—a concept I had never heard of, even after years of trauma therapy with my children. The Drama Triangle consists of three roles: Hero, Victim, and Villain. I knew about being a victim and villain, but being a Hero? That one hit home. I realized I had fallen into the trap of trying to save everyone—my kids, my family, and even myself—in ways that weren’t healthy.
The truth is, God has not called us to control the lives of those around us. Instead, He invites us to have a healthy mindset rooted in faith, trust, and personal responsibility. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to set our minds on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy. It’s time to step out of the Drama Triangle and into the Empowerment Triangle—and I’ll show you how.
The Drama Triangle vs. The Empowerment Triangle
Dr. Andersen explains that people often get caught in the Drama Triangle when something goes wrong, fearing they’ll look bad or lose control. We think we need to step in as the Hero to save the day, but it only leads to stress, emotional burnout, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. For me, it meant turning to food for comfort, getting caught up in family drama, and neglecting my own health.
Instead of staying stuck in this unhealthy triangle, Dr. Andersen encourages us to step into the Empowerment Triangle:
- Creator: Take ownership of your life and actively create the story you want to live.
- Coach: Provide guidance and encouragement without taking control.
- Challenger: Push yourself to grow by facing challenges with curiosity and courage.
Stepping Out of the Drama Triangle
I experienced firsthand how stepping out of the Drama Triangle could transform not only my mindset but also the lives of those around me. Two of our adopted daughters recently left for teaching jobs in Poland—a dream they pursued without me swooping in to save the day. By choosing not to act as the Hero, I gave them the space to become the creators of their own lives.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was that when I let go of trying to control everything, my children started making better decisions on their own. Instead of jumping in to fix things, I asked, “Do you want to hear my thoughts, or do you want to figure it out yourself?” And you know what? They figured it out! They applied for jobs, made travel plans, and embraced their new roles as independent adults.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Stepping out of the Drama Triangle means trusting that God is at work in the lives of those we love, even when we step back.
5 Action Steps to Move from the Drama Triangle to the Empowerment Triangle
- Acknowledge the Role You’re Playing
Ask yourself: Are you trying to be a Hero, always fixing things for others? Or are you stuck in a Victim or Villain role? Self-awareness is the first step to change. Romans 12:2 encourages us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” - Become the Creator of Your Own Story
Take ownership of your life. What goals do you want to achieve? What changes do you want to make? Make a plan, pray over it, and begin taking small steps toward the future you want to create. - Learn to Coach, Not Control
Instead of trying to fix the problems of those around you, offer gentle guidance when asked. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” Become a source of encouragement rather than control. - Embrace Challenges with Curiosity
When difficulties arise, don’t fall into old habits of fear and control. Instead, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” Trust that God is using every challenge to grow you. James 1:2-3 reminds us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” - Surround Yourself with a Healthy Community
Don’t go it alone. Find a community that supports your goals and encourages your growth. This could be a health coach, a small group at church, or friends who inspire you. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
A Healthier Mindset, A Healthier Life
Choosing to step out of the Drama Triangle has changed my life. I’ve learned to stop riding the emotional rollercoaster and to trust God with the people and situations I once tried to control. I’ve embraced a healthy mindset, and it’s had a profound impact not just on my health, but on my family as well.
When we stop trying to be the Hero and start living as Creators, Coaches, and Challengers, we open the door to real growth—for ourselves and for those around us. We become healthier physically, mentally, and spiritually. And we allow God to do the work only He can do in the lives of those we love.
If you’re ready to step into the Empowerment Triangle, start today. Lean into God’s grace, make a plan, and trust the process. If you need support along the way, I’d love to walk with you on this journey.
What role are you playing in your story? Are you ready to step into the Empowerment Triangle and create the life God has for you? Let’s move forward together—one healthy step at a time! Fill out this short form to join our next 14-Day Detox starting October 28!
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
October 21
Luke 18:9-14, Mark 10:1-12, Matthew 19:1-12, Mark 10:13-16, Matthew 19:13-15, Luke 18:15-17, Mark 10:17-31, Matthew 19:16-30, Luke 18:18-30
What is Possible with God
In today’s readings, we encounter profound lessons in humility, surrender, and what is truly possible with God. Jesus teaches through parables, interactions with people, and thought-provoking questions, revealing the need for hearts devoted to God.
In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells the parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector praying in the temple. The Pharisee boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for God’s mercy. Jesus teaches that the one who humbles himself is exalted, reminding us that God seeks genuine hearts over appearances.
In Mark 10:1-12 and Matthew 19:1-12, Jesus addresses the topic of divorce when the Pharisees try to trap Him. He emphasizes God’s original design for marriage as a lifelong covenant, established at creation. Though the Pharisees focus on legal loopholes, Jesus points to the heart of the matter: God desires love and faithfulness in marriage.
In Mark 10:13-16, Matthew 19:13-15, and Luke 18:15-17, Jesus welcomes children, saying, “Let the children come to me.” His words emphasize the need for childlike faith to enter God’s Kingdom. No one is too small or unimportant to be embraced by God.
Lastly, in Mark 10:17-31, Matthew 19:16-30, and Luke 18:18-30, a rich young ruler asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. When Jesus tells him to sell everything and follow Him, the man leaves sorrowfully, unable to part with his wealth. Jesus teaches that it’s difficult for the rich to enter the Kingdom but assures us that with God, all things are possible.
Word of the Day: Possible
Definition: Able to be done; within the power or capacity of someone or something.
This reminds us that the power and capacity do not come from us but from God.
Application #1: God Makes the Impossible, Possible
Sometimes, life presents us with challenges that seem too hard to overcome. But today’s readings remind us that with God, all things are possible.
- A Fresh Start is Possible:
We see two men—one who thinks he’s righteous and another who knows he is not. Jesus shows that God is always ready to offer mercy when we come to Him with humility. No matter how far we feel we’ve strayed, a fresh start with God is always possible. - A Strong Marriage is Possible:
Relationships will face trials, but Jesus reminds us that God’s design is for lasting love. A strong marriage becomes possible when both partners humble themselves, seek God first, and love one another with tender hearts. True love endures when we put God above ourselves. - Wholehearted Service to God is Possible:
The rich young ruler struggled to follow Jesus fully because his heart was tied to his wealth. Jesus teaches that while giving our all may seem impossible, nothing is too hard for God. It’s not about what we give up—it’s about what we gain when we surrender fully to Him.
In every scenario, humility is the key to unlocking the “impossible.”
- We need humility to recognize our need for God’s mercy.
- We need humility to love others selflessly.
- We need humility to release what holds us back and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Every impossible moment is an invitation to deeper humility and surrender, allowing God to work through us.
Application #2: A Call to Believe in the Possible
There are moments in life when we face what seems like impossible situations. But when we remember that with God, all things are possible, we shift our perspective. Even when earthly wisdom fails, God’s wisdom prevails.
What situation in your life feels impossible right now? Call up your belief, lean into God’s promises, and trust Him to make the impossible, possible. It’s not about our strength—it’s about God’s power at work in us.
October 22
Matthew 20:1-16, Mark 10:32-34, Matthew 20:17-19, Luke 18:31-34, Mark 10:35-45, Matthew 20:20-34, Mark 10:46-52, Luke 18:35-19:27
Servants in God’s Kingdom
In today’s readings, we encounter teachings from Jesus that turn our natural understanding of success and honor upside down. Jesus presents parables, interactions, and lessons that remind us of the importance of humility, service, and grace in the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 20:1-16 shares the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. In this story, a landowner hires workers throughout the day, yet all receive the same wage—a denarius. Those hired first grumble about the fairness of being paid the same as those who worked fewer hours. The landowner reminds them of his generosity and concludes with this profound statement: “The last will be first, and the first last.”
In Mark 10:32-34, Matthew 20:17-19, and Luke 18:31-34, Jesus again predicts His suffering and death, but His disciples still don’t fully understand. Even as Jesus faces the cross, His focus is not on status but on fulfilling the will of God.
Mark 10:35-45 introduces us to James and John’s request for positions of honor. Jesus challenges them, saying they do not know what they ask. When they affirm their willingness, Jesus reveals that following Him will mean sharing in His suffering. Greatness, Jesus explains, is not about power but servanthood: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.”
The lessons conclude with stories of healing and transformation in Luke 18:35–19:27. We meet a blind man in Jericho, whose faith leads to his healing, and Zacchaeus, the tax collector, who encounters Jesus and joyfully repents. These stories reinforce that the path to restoration lies in seeking Jesus, serving others, and embracing grace.
Word of the Day: Servant
Definition: A person who performs duties for others.
Application #1: True Greatness Is Found in Serving Others
Our culture often equates greatness with status, wealth, or influence. However, Jesus turns that thinking upside down.
- Greatness in God’s Kingdom Comes Through Service:
When James and John sought places of honor, Jesus pointed them to the path of service. He explained that true greatness lies not in authority but in servanthood. Jesus, the King of kings, came to serve—to heal the sick, wash feet, and ultimately lay down His life for us. - God’s Grace Is Not About Fairness but Generosity:
The parable of the vineyard workers reminds us that God’s ways are not like ours. Whether we come to faith early or late in life, His grace covers us equally. The reward is not based on the hours we put in but on God’s boundless love and generosity. - Our Call to Serve Others:
We can see ourselves in Zacchaeus, who climbed the tree to see Jesus. When we shift our perspective—from seeking recognition to seeking Jesus—we experience true transformation. Like Zacchaeus, our lives are changed not by what we gain but by what we give.
The blind men cried out for mercy, and Jesus responded with compassion. Zacchaeus repented and made restitution, reconnecting with his community. Their lives show us that service begins with humility and a willingness to be transformed by God.
Application #2: The Power of Humble Service
The path to greatness often starts with small, hidden acts of service. Jesus challenges us to follow His example by embracing humility and serving others with joy.
- What Does It Look Like to Serve in Everyday Life?
Service might mean listening when someone needs to be heard, offering kindness to a stranger, or sharing your faith. Like the mother of James and John, we might initially seek recognition, but Jesus invites us to shift our focus to others. - Where in Your Life Is God Calling You to Serve?
Reflect on where God is calling you to be a servant today. Is it within your family, workplace, church, or community? What small act of kindness can you offer that reflects the heart of Jesus?
The more we serve, the more we discover the heart of God. In giving, we find ourselves. In serving, we find purpose. And in surrendering, we receive the grace to live abundantly.
October 23
Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13, John 12:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19, Luke 19:41-44, John 12:20-36
Hosanna in the Highest
In today’s readings, we witness two pivotal moments—an extravagant act of worship by Mary in Bethany and Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where shouts of “Hosanna” echo in the streets. These stories remind us that Jesus’s kingship defies expectations, and true worship involves both sacrifice and surrender.
Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13, John 12:1-11
Jesus is dining in Bethany at Simon’s house when Mary, the sister of Lazarus, performs a beautiful act of devotion. Without saying a word, she anoints Jesus’s head with an expensive perfume—worth a year’s wages. This extravagant gesture foreshadows Jesus’s burial and reflects Mary’s understanding that Jesus is the King, deserving of anointing.
While some criticize her for the apparent waste, Jesus defends Mary, saying, “She has done a beautiful thing to me.” He acknowledges that they will always have the poor, but not Him, emphasizing the importance of recognizing sacred moments. This act will be remembered and retold for generations.
Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19
As Jesus prepares to enter Jerusalem, He sends two disciples to find a donkey and a colt. The people lay their cloaks and palm branches on the ground, shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” The crowd recognizes Jesus as a King, but their understanding is limited. They expect Him to bring political salvation, not realizing He offers something far greater—spiritual and eternal salvation.
Jesus’s arrival causes excitement and frustration. While His followers rejoice, the Pharisees feel threatened. They even ask Jesus to rebuke His disciples, but He replies, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”
Luke 19:41-44 adds a poignant moment—Jesus weeping over Jerusalem, lamenting their failure to recognize “the way to peace.” His heart breaks, not in condemnation but in compassion, wishing they would turn to Him.
John 12:20-36
Some Greeks approach Jesus, eager to see Him. Jesus uses this moment to speak of His impending death, comparing it to a grain of wheat that must die to produce many seeds. Though troubled, Jesus affirms that His mission is to bring life and light.
Word of the Day: Hosanna
Definition: (especially in biblical, Judaic, and Christian use) used to express adoration, praise, or joy.
Application #1: The Dual Meaning of Hosanna
In biblical times, “Hosanna” was not just a word of praise—it was a cry for help. The people of Jerusalem longed for deliverance from Roman rule and saw Jesus as the answer. However, their expectations were earthly and political, while Jesus’s mission was heavenly and eternal.
Like the crowds, we often cry out to Jesus when life becomes overwhelming. Our “Hosannas” come from moments of desperation—pleas for healing, financial provision, restored relationships, or peace in troubled times. Yet, Jesus offers us more than temporary relief. He offers Himself as the way, the truth, and the life.
- Surrendering Expectations: Often, we want Jesus to solve our problems on our terms, just as the people of Jerusalem expected a political king. True faith, however, requires us to lay down our expectations and trust in who Jesus is, even when His answers are unexpected.
- Finding Joy in the Midst of Trials: Just as “Hosanna” is both a plea and a praise, we can praise God even in our hardest moments. It’s an act of faith to thank God not only for what He has done but for what He will do, trusting His perfect plan.
Jesus doesn’t just save us from our circumstances; He saves us for eternity. He invites us to cry out to Him, trusting that He hears and answers in ways far greater than we can imagine.
Application #2: A Heart of Worship
Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with perfume was costly, but she held nothing back. Her silent act of worship teaches us that true worship isn’t about words—it’s about the heart.
- Worship Through Sacrifice: Just as Mary poured out what was precious to her, we are invited to offer our time, resources, and hearts to Jesus. Worship isn’t always convenient or comfortable, but it’s worth it.
- Recognizing Sacred Moments: Mary’s act reminds us to be present in the sacred moments of life. Sometimes, like the disciples, we are too busy or distracted to notice what God is doing. Let’s pause and worship Him fully, without reservation.
Through Mary’s sacrifice, the shouts of “Hosanna,” and the tears of Jesus over Jerusalem, we see a picture of a God who longs for our hearts. He wants us to come to Him—not only with our needs but with our whole selves.
October 24
John 12:37-50, Mark 11:12-14, Matthew 21:18-22, Mark 11:15-19, Matthew 21:12-17, Luke 19:45-48, Mark 11:20-33, Matthew 21:23-27, Luke 20:1-8
Shining Light From the Fig Tree to the Temple
In today’s readings, we explore a series of events where Jesus’s actions might seem startling at first glance. He curses a fig tree, overturns tables in the temple, and confronts the Pharisees. But as we dig deeper, we realize that Jesus was shining His light into the darkness of hypocrisy, lifeless faith, and hardened hearts.
John 12:37-50
Despite witnessing miracles, many people still doubted Jesus. “For they loved human praise more than the praise of God,” (John 12:43). Jesus explains that His mission is to bring light into a dark world, urging people to trust Him and find eternal life. “I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark,” (John 12:48).
Mark 11:12-14, Matthew 21:18-22: The Cursed Fig Tree
On His way to Jerusalem, Jesus encounters a fig tree with no fruit and curses it. This act serves as a lesson on faith and the importance of producing spiritual fruit. EnduringWord.com offers insight: God isn’t pleased with the appearance of fruit without the reality. It’s not enough to look the part; genuine faith must bear fruit. “Talk without walk” is not what God desires from His people.
Mark 11:15-19, Matthew 21:12-17, Luke 19:45-48: Clearing the Temple
Jesus enters the temple and drives out the merchants and money changers. His actions shine a light on the misuse of God’s house, exposing the corruption of the religious leaders. Jesus declares, “My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” (Mark 11:17). His righteous anger emphasizes that worship must come from the heart and that God’s house is a place for prayer, not profit.
In Matthew’s account, Jesus follows these actions with acts of healing, showing that true worship includes compassion for the broken.
Mark 11:20-33, Matthew 21:23-27: Lessons in Faith and Forgiveness
The next day, the disciples see that the cursed fig tree has withered, and Jesus uses it to teach about the power of prayer and faith. He urges them to pray with belief and forgive others, for a hard heart can block the flow of God’s forgiveness.
Back at the temple, the religious leaders challenge Jesus’s authority. Jesus counters their question with one about John the Baptist, exposing their unwillingness to face the truth. As William Barclay says, they ended up twisting themselves in knots, revealing their hypocrisy.
Word of the Day: Shine
Definition: Shine – (verb) to direct light in order to see in the dark; (noun) the brightness produced when light reflects on something.
Application #1
In John 12:46, Jesus declares, “I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.”
The world is full of darkness—broken relationships, addictions, fear, and false beliefs. But Jesus doesn’t leave us in that darkness. He shines His light to reveal truth, expose sin, and guide us toward grace.
- Light in the Temple: Jesus cleansed the temple, driving out darkness and restoring its purpose. He calls us to examine our own hearts—what needs to be driven out so that we can fully worship Him?
- Light in Prayer: Through the withered fig tree, Jesus teaches us that faith isn’t about appearances but rooted in real belief. Are we holding onto grudges or doubts that block God’s light in our lives?
- Light in Forgiveness: Forgiving others allows God’s forgiveness to shine through us. Darkness hides in the corners of resentment, but Jesus invites us to let His light bring healing and release.
Application #2
When we encounter hard things—like anger, injustice, or unanswered prayers—Jesus’s actions remind us that He doesn’t ignore darkness; He confronts it. His actions may seem startling at times, but they are always filled with purpose and light.
- Shining Light in Our Circumstances: Just as the fig tree withered under Jesus’s word, so too can the dark areas of our lives wither under His light. Are there areas in your life that need the light of Jesus today?
- Trusting the Light in Hard Times: Jesus teaches us that faith and forgiveness go hand in hand. It’s not easy to forgive or to trust when life feels dark, but the light of Jesus enables us to pray with confidence, knowing that He hears us.
Remember, where Jesus is, there is no darkness. He came to shine His light in your life, driving out fear, doubt, and sin. Let’s allow Him to shine brightly, not only in our hearts but through our actions.
October 25
Matthew 21:28-32, Mark 12:1-12, Matthew 21:33-46, Luke 20:9-19, Matthew 22:1-14, Mark 12:13-17, Matthew 22:15-22, Luke 20:20-26, Mark 12:18-27, Matthew 22:23-33, Luke 20:27-40
Building Upon the Cornerstone
In today’s readings, we reflect on several parables and teachings where Jesus confronts religious hypocrisy, illustrates the importance of repentance, and challenges His followers to build their lives upon a firm foundation. These powerful lessons call us to realign our faith with the Chief Cornerstone—Jesus Christ.
Matthew 21:28-32: The Parable of Two Sons
In this parable, one son refuses to work but later repents and obeys his father, while the other promises to go but never follows through. Jesus highlights that true repentance matters more than appearances. Obedience isn’t about words; it’s about actions.
Mark 12:1-12, Matthew 21:33-46, Luke 20:9-19: The Parable of the Wicked Tenants
The tenants entrusted with a vineyard mistreat the landowner’s servants and ultimately kill his son. Jesus uses this parable to emphasize the rejection of God’s messengers throughout history and the ultimate rejection of His Son. The parable warns of the consequences of rejecting God and announces that the Kingdom of God will be entrusted to those who produce fruit.
Jesus concludes by quoting Psalm 118: “The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.”
Matthew 22:1-14: The Parable of the Wedding Feast
In this parable, a king invites guests to a wedding feast for his son, but many refuse to come. Others mistreat the king’s messengers, prompting the king to invite anyone they can find. However, one guest is thrown out for not wearing the appropriate attire, symbolizing the importance of responding to God’s invitation with sincere repentance. As Charles Spurgeon noted, the guest came only for personal gain, not to honor the king or his son.
Mark 12:13-17, Matthew 22:15-22, Luke 20:20-26: The Trap on Taxes
The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus by asking if it’s lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus’s response, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God,” reveals that while earthly duties matter, God’s claim on our hearts is ultimate.
Mark 12:18-27, Matthew 22:23-33, Luke 20:27-40: The Sadducees’ Question on the Resurrection
The Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, pose a hypothetical question about marriage in the afterlife. Jesus corrects their misunderstanding by explaining that relationships in heaven transcend earthly concepts. He emphasizes God’s power and the reality of resurrection, proving it with Scripture: “He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob”—not the God of the dead, but of the living.
Word of the Day: Cornerstone
Definition: A cornerstone is the essential foundation upon which everything else is built. In ancient construction, it was the stone that aligned the entire structure. In Scripture, Jesus is called the Chief Cornerstone of our faith.
Application #1
The cornerstone determines the stability and alignment of the entire building. Without Jesus as the cornerstone of our faith, everything else falls out of alignment. Just as builders need a firm foundation, we must build our lives on the solid foundation of Christ.
Consider these questions:
- Are you building your faith upon the Chief Cornerstone, or relying on your efforts, traditions, or appearances?
- Are you allowing Jesus to shape every aspect of your life—your decisions, relationships, and priorities?
Jesus warns us in these passages that a foundation built on anything other than Him will not stand. He is the only plan for salvation. When Jesus holds the central place in our lives, everything else falls into place according to His perfect design. Build upon Him, and your faith will withstand the trials of life.
Application #2
The Pharisees, Sadducees, and religious leaders rejected Jesus—the Chief Cornerstone. Their refusal to align with Him led to spiritual collapse. But we have a choice. We can lay down our pride, embrace Jesus as our cornerstone, and build our lives upon Him.
Like the parable of the wedding feast, God invites everyone to His banquet. However, it’s not enough to simply show up. We must come prepared—clothed in humility, repentance, and a heart aligned with God’s will. True faith is not just about appearances but about genuine transformation.
Let’s embrace Jesus, the Chief Cornerstone, and allow His light to guide us. In doing so, we can build lives that reflect His love, grace, and truth.
October 26
Mark 12:28-34, Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:35-37, Matthew 22:41-46, Luke 20:41-44, Mark 12:38-40, Matthew 23:1-12, Luke 20:45-47, Matthew 23:13-39, Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4
Before diving into today’s readings, let’s take a quick history lesson from BibleProject.com about the Jewish Shema Prayer. The Shema gets its name from the first Hebrew word of the prayer—shema, meaning “hear” or “listen.” Ancient Jews combined lines from Deuteronomy 6:4-5 with other passages from the Torah and prayed these words every morning and evening. This prayer is one of the most influential traditions in Jewish history, functioning as both a pledge of allegiance and a hymn of praise to God.
Mark 12:28-34 and Matthew 22:34-40: The Greatest Commandments
The Pharisees approach Jesus, asking Him to identify the most important commandment in the Jewish law. Jesus responds by quoting the Shema:
“Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength.” – Deuteronomy 6:4-5
He then adds the second greatest commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This summarizes the law and the prophets, emphasizing that love for God and others is at the core of true obedience. The religious scholar agrees, even acknowledging that loving God and others is more important than burnt offerings and sacrifices. Jesus recognizes the scholar’s insight and responds: “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”
Mark 12:35-40, Matthew 22:41-46, Luke 20:41-47: A Question of Authority
Love Given Freely
In these passages, Jesus turns the tables on the religious leaders, asking them whose son the Messiah is. When they answer, “The son of David,” Jesus challenges them with a deeper truth, explaining that the Messiah is more than just a descendant of David; He is Lord.
Jesus also warns the people about the scribes and Pharisees, who seek recognition and honor but fail to show compassion to the poor and needy. His message is clear: True devotion to God goes beyond appearances; it is rooted in love, humility, and service.
Matthew 23:1-12, Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4: Warnings and a Widow’s Gift
Jesus speaks to the crowds about the burdensome rules of the Pharisees, calling them “blind guides” who lead people astray. He warns against performing good deeds for show and describes the Pharisees as “snakes, sons of vipers.”
Then, Jesus watches as people give offerings in the temple. The wealthy give large amounts, but a poor widow gives two small coins—all she has. Jesus praises her, saying:
“This poor widow has given more than all the others, for they gave a tiny part of their wealth, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” – Mark 12:44
This moment teaches us that God values the heart behind the gift more than the size of the gift itself.
Word of the Day: Given
Definition: to have freely transferred the possession of (something) to someone; to hand over.
In today’s readings, we see what it means to give freely. The widow gave everything she had, not out of obligation, but out of love and trust in God.
Application #1
Jesus teaches us that love and generosity are not about appearances but about giving from the heart. As the Pharisees performed good deeds for recognition, the widow gave her last coins with humility. She didn’t give a large sum, but she gave sacrificially—and that’s what mattered to Jesus.
In the same way, we are called to give our lives to God—not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude. This can be reflected in our time, resources, relationships, and service to others.
Here’s a question to reflect on: How are you giving to God today? Are you giving like the Pharisees—out of obligation or pride? Or are you giving like the widow—out of faith and love, trusting that God will provide?
Jesus gave everything for us. Throughout His ministry, He gave time, compassion, healing, and truth to the crowds. As He approached the cross, He continued to give—to the very end—offering His life as the ultimate gift.
Application #2
Our giving reflects the two greatest commandments:
- Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Love your neighbor as yourself.
The Pharisees gave out of duty, but love requires more than duty—it demands our whole heart. Love isn’t just about emotions; it’s an act of giving.
The widow’s offering shows us that even small acts of love and generosity matter when they come from the right heart. Likewise, Jesus gave Himself completely—not only for us, but to show us what it means to love wholeheartedly.
October 27
Mark 13:1-23, Matthew 24:1-25, Luke 21:5-24, Mark 13:24-31, Matthew 24:26-35, Luke 21:25-33
Remaining Faithful when Signs are Forecast
In today’s passages from Mark 13:1-23, Matthew 24:1-25, and Luke 21:5-24, we encounter some of Jesus’ final teachings, delivered with urgency. Jesus is on the Mount of Olives, giving His disciples a “forecast” of the end times, known as the Olivet Discourse. His message is both a warning and a call to faithfulness.
Mark 13:1-23, Matthew 24:1-25: The End of the Temple and the World
As they leave the Temple, Jesus tells His disciples that the Temple will be destroyed. They are stunned. This magnificent structure, a symbol of their nation and faith, will be torn down.
Jesus’ prophecy came true about 40 years later, in A.D. 70, when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem during a Jewish revolt. But Jesus’ words go beyond the immediate events—they point toward the future, preparing His disciples for the challenges they will face.
He describes a world filled with wars, earthquakes, and famines. These signs, Jesus says, are only the beginning of birth pains. Persecution, betrayal, and false messiahs will arise, calling His followers to stand firm and testify about Him. The disciples must remain vigilant, discerning the true Messiah from imposters.
Mark 13:24-31, Matthew 24:26-35: The Return of the Son of Man
Jesus assures His followers that, although cosmic upheaval will come, His return is certain. The Son of Man will come with power and glory, bringing restoration and judgment. Jesus emphasizes that His words will never pass away, even though heaven and earth will.
This reminds us of Isaiah 40:8:
“The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.”
Jesus urges His disciples to watch for the signs of His return, not to predict the exact time but to live in faithful anticipation. The focus isn’t on deciphering every detail but trusting in God’s promises and staying ready.
Luke 21:5-24: The Fall of Jerusalem and God’s Faithfulness
Luke gives additional details about the persecution of believers and the fall of Jerusalem. Jesus reminds His disciples that even in the face of adversity, God will remain faithful. They are called to stand firm in their faith and trust that God’s word will prevail.
Word of the Day: Forecast
Definition: a prediction or projection about future events.
In today’s readings, we are reminded that Jesus’ “forecast” isn’t just about what’s to come—it’s about how we live in the waiting.
Application #1:
When reading these passages, it’s easy to get caught up in the details—trying to predict timelines or figure out every sign. But Jesus’ words point us toward something deeper: faith, vigilance, and hope.
The prophecy of the destruction of the Temple shows us that God’s word is certain. Just as He foretold the events of A.D. 70, we can trust that Jesus will return and God’s promises will be fulfilled.
Jesus urges us to stay alert and remain faithful, even when life feels uncertain. As Matthew 25:33 says, He will return in glory to take His place as King. While we can’t know the exact time, we can live each day with the assurance that He will come again.
Application #2:
Right now, the world feels chaotic. As we record this, Israel is at war, and storms rage across the globe. Yet, in the midst of the uncertainty, we are reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus. Just as He warned His disciples, He encourages us to stay grounded in faith, trusting that God is in control.
This brings to mind the old hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”:
Our God, our Help in ages past,
Our Hope for years to come,
Our Shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home.
So what can we do while we wait?
Trust in God’s promises. Though the world may shake, His word remains unchanging.
Pray without ceasing. Pray for God’s chosen people, pray for peace, and pray for endurance.
Stand firm in your faith. As Paul encourages us in Ephesians 6:13-17, we must put on the armor of God—fastening the belt of truth, wearing the breastplate of righteousness, and carrying the shield of faith.
