Monday December 14th, 2015 Luke 7:31-35
"To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like?" (verse 31)
If you have ever tried to please a child who is upset, you have probably learned that sometimes nothing will make them happy. You may try many things without success before you realize that it isn’t about the toys or the colour of the socks; it’s about the child who may be overtired or not feeling well.
The writer says that the people of this generation are like children who cannot be pleased. (verse 32) They reject John’s teachings because he lives in the desert alone and fasts, but they reject Jesus because he is too social, eating and drinking too much and with the wrong people. (verse 33-34) The people are not wise enough to realize that their criticisms say more about themselves than about Jesus or John. Their judgments reveal that they are resistant to hearing the messages of John and Jesus.
Sometimes, as I reflect on my day, I realize that I have been too critical of someone. Often I then recognize I am actually unhappy with something in my own life. Examining our reactions to others can help us see the truth about ourselves. We see our actions in a new light.
God, shine a light on our lives, and show us how to follow your way. Amen. — JN
Contributed by Acting Like Children
If you have ever tried to please a child who is upset, you have probably learned that sometimes nothing will make them happy. You may try many things without success before you realize that it isn't about the toys or the colour of the socks; it's about the child who may be overtired or not feeling well.
The writer says that the people of this generation are like children who cannot be pleased. (verse 32) They reject John's teachings because he lives in the desert alone and fasts, but they reject Jesus because he is too social, eating and drinking too much and with the wrong people. (verse 33-34) The people are not wise enough to realize that their criticisms say more about themselves than about Jesus or John. Their judgments reveal that they are resistant to hearing the messages of John and Jesus.
Sometimes, as I reflect on my day, I realize that I have been too critical of someone. Often I then recognize I am actually unhappy with something in my own life. Examining our reactions to others can help us see the truth about ourselves. We see our actions in a new light.
