Today’s Scripture Readings

Gospel Reading

NRSV

At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” ’

Following in the footsteps of Christ can, at times, mean rattling some cages. One cannot live the Gospel message authentically and with integrity without being counter cultural at times or challenging the words, deeds and behaviours of others. Being one who exhibits patience, kindness, joy, love, faithfulness and other fruits of the Spirit can even, ironically, bring out resentment and jealousy in others as they consciously or subconsciously realise that what is abundant in you is lacking within themselves.

That’s why there will be times when people will try to discourage you, distract you or try to prevent you from doing the work of God that you feel called to do. Not because you are doing something wrong, but because your faithfulness is calling into question their own choices. Their discouragement can be packaged as concern or advice and can even appear as wisdom at times. However, if the intention is to encourage you to abandon work that is bearing good fruit than it’s important to keep today’s Gospel in mind.

Jesus is steadfast and sees the “concern” of the Pharisees for what it is – an attempt to distract, discourage and manipulate. “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work.” We are called therefore to stay the course, drawing the gaze of those around us towards the Risen Christ, so that through our work and faithfulness to the mission others will proclaim “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” (Luke 13:35)

Take a moment today to encourage yourself to stay the course by taking note of the fruit of your good work.