Jesus and the Thief - The Divine Fellowship

“Let him who steals steal no longer; but rather let him labor, performing with his own hands what is good, in order that he may have something to share with him who has need.” — Ephesians 4:28

Allow yourself to journey in your mind to a crowded hillside where Jesus is speaking. Let your senses open—see the light, hear the murmur of the crowd, feel the dust underfoot. In this guided experience, you’ll view the scene from the perspective of a thief: quick, alert, and watchful. If resistance arises (“But I don’t steal!”), set it aside and ask, “What message is here for me?” Know that loving guides and angels stand by to help you receive.

When you feel ready, begin. For each question, click the answer that resonates with you at this moment. At the end, you will receive an affirmation that reflects the symbolism of the answers you selected.

1) Enter the Scene — What is Jesus doing in your vision?

You arrive where Jesus is addressing a large crowd. People lean in; the air hums with anticipation. Moving through the edges of the gathering is a thief—quick, alert, confident. Feel his stress, excitement, and edgy focus as he scans for opportunity while Jesus engages the crowd.

a) Teaching the Sermon on the Mount b) Healing the sick c) Teaching in parables

2) The Hidden Knife — Where does he keep the knife?

Stay with the thief. Study his clothing and movements. As you think about his tool, you send a quiet “ping” of awareness. He senses it and reveals where he keeps his small, sharp knife.

a) Up his sleeve b) In the folds of his garment c) In his belt or sash

3) The Turning Point — What has he carved?

The crowd disperses. The thief slips into the shade, Jesus’ words still echoing in his mind. He picks up a stick, draws the knife, and begins to whittle. As shavings fall, something beautiful emerges from the wood.

a) A figure or face b) An animal or bird c) A building, structure, or design

4) A New Path Opens — Who becomes his apprentice?

A passerby admires the carving and buys it. Another carving sells just as quickly. The thief feels joyful satisfaction—different from the thrill of stealing. That evening he gives some of his earned coins to a beggar. Days pass; skill grows; generosity deepens. He becomes known as a woodcarver, a master craftsman who shares freely and begins to teach.

a) The beggar he once helped b) A young man seeking purpose c) Someone he once stole from

Stepping Back Into Now

Take a slow breath and return to this time and place. Notice your body and surroundings. When you feel fully present, click the Get My Affirmation button below. As you read this affirmation, ponder:

What does this transformation reveal about your gifts?
Where might Spirit be inviting you into a new way of being?
Note any words or feelings that “ring true.”

Trust your inner knowing to speak first.

Your Affirmation

You can journal about any images, words, or feelings that stood out. What gifts are you ready to share?