31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?”                    

Years ago, I brought our dog to our veterinarian. I was always impressed by how he treated animals. He made you think you had the finest animal in the world. 

A lady brought her cat to be examined before me and I observed the discussion of the owner with the Vet's assistant. The owner asked about the breed of her cat.  The assistant looked and said, "you have a common ally cat."  When the Vet came out the woman asked him the same question.  With a big smile he announced to her pleasure, “Why, this is a great all-American cat.  You’re lucky to have a fine animal like this."

She was very pleased.    

When our family was looking for a dog one time, my brother wanted a certain pedigree. People could charge a great deal of money if they had registered papers on the parents of a puppy, proving that their blood line is pure, and the animal is concerned by society to be a full-fledged animal of a particular breed.  The animal gained value based on the mother and father of the them. The ones that have a pedigree degree are of more value.  The label makes a difference.

Jesus readily points out the difference between the things that people think are important from the things that God thinks are important.

A human pedigree degree doesn't mean anything to Jesus.  There is a certain amount of pride that people derive when they find out some great-great-great ancestor was royalty.  But what happens when they discover an ancestor was a horse thief? Our family relatives have no effect on our standing before God.    

Jesus discussed things like ancestry, discipleship, and gave further revelations of who He was as He continued His conversations with the Jewish religious leaders.

I think we can benefit from His discussion.

Prayer:  Father, thank you for making us equal.  Thank you for saving us through Grace not of works so no one can boast.  Lord, all that you do in me, is of You and You alone.   I just need to abide and "be" for You are seated at the right hand of God forever interceding for me.   Lead me in the way I should go, for I trust in You.