May the Lord give you grace and peace in the Holy Spirit.
It is 16th March 2022.
We reflect on Jeremiah 18:18-20 and Matthew 20:17-28.
To serve means to suffer; without suffering, there is sanctification.
We cannot stop someone speaking ill of us, but we can change the course of their talking by the actions we do that benefit the community. Either we become upset, break down, or hide in the cave of our loneliness and calibrated silent treatments.
It is not the case with the prophet Jeremiah. When he spoke for the good of the people and the community, he was hunted after by the same people. He surrenders himself to God. Without prayer, we cannot face any scathing attack. God alone can protect us from such situations. God will not promise but provide a safe and fear-free mind and life.
When position and power blind humanity, it speaks the tone of insensitivity. Parents wish the best for their children always. As Bathsheba pleaded for her son Solomon the kingdom of King David, the mother of James and John asked a huge favour.
Mostly, ambitious parents’ eyes on success, and reputation not on suffering and serving. Sometimes, just like the parent of James and John, they ask something for their children to enjoy the best position and placement in the helm of affairs without going through the passage of discipline, pain, suffering and humility. To be a disciple of Jesus, one is prepared to carry the cross of one’s own and willing to bear the unbearable criticism and crucifixion.
It is by our willingness to bear the cost of sacrifice, we cannot truly and fully enjoy the benefits of salvation from the Cross of Jesus.
Salvation does not accommodate competition.
At least during Lent, let us not rush to condemn others even when they want to crucify and crush us. The world will never treat us well for what we are. It will promote and promise everything to those who accept its ways. Are we ready to accept what God is willing to offer us? May God bless you.