Today’s Scripture Readings

Gospel Reading

NRSV

‘To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market-place and calling to one another, “We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.” For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, “He has a demon”; the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, “Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax-collectors and sinners!” Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children.’

Ever been at a party and not quite been in the mood? Or at a funeral and the sadness did not register? On the other hand, we might reject something popular in society because it doesn’t quite align with our sense of faith, justice, and morality. Sometimes we might find ourselves out of step with how those around us are responding, rightly or wrongly. What matters is being able to identify the time we are in and look to the Holy Spirit to respond with wisdom.

Just before today’s passage, the Pharisees’ rejection of John the Baptist’s teachings is declared by Jesus as a rejection of Him. In following Christ, some moments call for celebration and feasting, while others call for a more sombre disposition. John the Baptist was rejected because of his invitation to fast, weep and repent, while Jesus is rejected because He is feasting and dancing, signs heralding the coming of the Messiah; neither movement was recognised nor embraced by the Pharisees and the opponents of Jesus.

Just as Jesus compares Himself to the Bridegroom, there is a time for weeping and a time for dancing in our pursuit of Holiness, and we must look to Jesus and the Holy Spirit for the eyes and wisdom to recognise the moments we find ourselves in.

Jesus, help me to look to You and respond in faith, with dancing and weeping as the time requires. May the Holy Spirit alert me that I might be docile to Your will. Amen.

How is Jesus asking you to respond in this season of your life?