Jesus said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” Matthew 13:52

Every child of God has a unique history in their faith journey. Some come to Jesus with a blank slate, having no prior experience with Christianity. Their hearts are open and ready for God to write a story that’s uniquely theirs. It’s a beautiful beginning, free from preconceived notions. Others, however, bring years of church experience with them. They know the scriptures inside and out, having been well indoctrinated in many teachings. Yet, if their past has been marred by rigid legalism, it can feel tempting to wipe the slate clean and start fresh with Jesus. But is that truly necessary?  

In this simple parable, Jesus shows us the beauty of blending the old with the new. He reminds us that while teachers may be flawed, the truths they share can still be sound. These truths are treasures worth holding onto. As we grow in our faith, it’s vital to separate the gold from the grime—to appreciate the wisdom that remains while letting go of what doesn’t serve us anymore.  Maturity in faith is all about recognizing these truths and allowing God to guide us in discerning what is beneficial. 

God is always with us, guiding us to let go of the teachings that hinder our growth while keeping the gems that enrich our journey. So, whether you’re starting fresh or carrying years of church experience, remember that each of us has a unique path—we should embrace it and feed it voraciously, letting the Holy Spirit guide us into all Truth.

And finally, as we navigate this journey, we can maintain a calm and relaxed mindset, allowing ourselves the space to grow and learn without the pressure of perfectionism.

If there is more of the old I need to embrace, reveal it.  If there is more I am to discard, I am willing.  Be the sifter, Lord Jesus. Amen