Nougat 29

In our reflections, we have noted that the relationship between Jesus and the theologians of His day could get challenging, and we have been learning from one of the encounters. Yesterday we looked at the theologians, now let’s focus on Jesus approach to their comments in today’s Holy Nougat

“But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.”” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

I might have been that unmentioned disciple, who took umbrage to the Pharisees’ questions. I might even have been the shame-faced guest about whom they spoke. I am not sure that I would have been among the Pharisees asking that question, but pre-conversion I know that my response would not have as open and gentle as Jesus.

Please don’t miss the point, it’s not that Jesus didn’t put the theologians in their place, but we are reflecting on how He did it. You see, Jesus was not amused by their questions. His response makes this clear. Yet, He seemed to have internalized the proverb, ‘a soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir anger.’ So He shared the entire message of the Gospel to the Pharisees, who might have missed the point, by establishing His raison d’être (purpose).

And, it was His purpose that was being fulfilled in the methods Jesus used to spread the Good News. Knowing that He was in purpose, on purpose, Jesus did not allow Himself to be rattled by naysaying theologians around Him. He was focused on ensuring that the sick found healing grace, for body, mind and spirit. And, in the midst of stating His purpose, Jesus managed to sneak in an invitation for transformation to them.

Did they accept – well, most did not. But we do know that Nicodemus went seeking Him out, albeit at night. That same Nicodemus spoke up for Jesus to his peers and self-identified as a believer by the time of Jesus’ burial (see John 7:51-52 and John 19:39 for both stories). This might not seem like much to us, but the fact is, we might be called to impact one person among those who are constantly giving us grief.

Our response could be the deal-breaker. Yes, we stand on our purpose (actually, it’s God’s, not ours). And when we do respond, we try to leave room for conviction of God’s Truth and we leave the rest to the Spirit of God. That’s it.

As we yield to God’s Spirit, may this be easier for us to do.

—

May all we seek be found in Christ