Scripture:
Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him Jesus answered them,
"Many good works I have shown you from My Father. For which of
those works do you stone Me?" The Jews answered Him, saying,
"For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and
because You, being a Man, make Yourself God." John 10:31-33
Reflection:
Throughout his earthly ministry, Jesus was accused of things he
didn't do, cursed for things he did do, and rejected by the very
people he came to save. He said he was the Son of God and was charged
with blasphemy. That would have been a legitimate charge had his
claim been false. But it was true. He was the only begotten and
eternal Son of God. In him was everlasting life and the only way to
peace with God.
If Jesus was falsely accused and rejected, we can expect to be
discredited and dismissed as well, when we speak words of truth. We
must always purpose to speak the truth in love, but that is no
guarantee that we, or our message, will be accepted. People may say
bad and hurtful things about us, but may they never be justified in
saying those things because we spoke or acted unwisely or unkindly.
Prayer:
Lord, help us to be good examples to others. May we speak truth to
others, but may we always do it in a spirit of love. When we are
misunderstood or rejected, give us the grace needed to remain joyful
and at peace. May things like fear, intimidation, and rejection never
prevent us from proclaiming your truth to a world who needs you.
Amen.
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