Living
Imagine you’re sitting on your favorite couch, maybe with a cup of coffee or tea, scrolling through life, wondering, What’s the point? Why push myself spiritually when I’m comfortable? I get it. We all have those moments where we just want to coast. But Jesus, in Matthew 5:19-20, drops a truth bomb that’s both a wake-up call and an invitation to something beautiful.
Scripture Reading
Jesus says in Matthew 5:19-20 (NLT): “So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!”
God’s blueprint for how life works best. Jesus says if we ignore even the smallest command and lead others to do the same, we’re settling for a smaller life, “least” in the Kingdom. Not because God’s punishing us, but because we’re missing the joy of living His way.
On the flip side, when we obey and teach these commands—maybe by showing kindness to a neighbor, forgiving a grudge, or praying for someone who’s hard to love—we’re called “great” in God’s Kingdom. That’s not about being famous; it’s about living a life that shines with purpose. Seniors, you’ve got a lifetime of wisdom to share. Teaching God’s Words can show your grandkids, your friends, or household helpers, even a stranger, what God’s love looks like.
Where do we start? The 1-Minute Scripture Pause (Using NLT)
Make It Easy (Low Preparation): Choose one verse each week to focus on. For example, pick Matthew 5:16 (NLT): “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Write it on a sticky note or set it as your phone’s lock screen. No need to dive into a whole chapter—just this one verse.
Make It Obvious (Cue-Based): Tie meditation to an existing habit, like your morning coffee or tea. Stick the verse on your mug or table. Each time you take a sip, pause for 1 minute to read the verse and think, How can I shine for someone today? For example, Could I send a kind text or help a neighbor?
Make It Satisfying (Reward): After your 1-minute pause, enjoy a small reward, like a favorite sugar-free cookie. This makes the habit feel good, so you’ll want to do it again. Over time, this tiny practice becomes a joyful connection with God.
Scale Up Gradually: After a week or two, when this feels natural, add a second minute to pray or jot down a thought about the verse. Keep it short to avoid feeling overwhelmed.