DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Sunday, October 7, 2018

When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?”  But Jesus, being aware that his disciples were complaining about it, said to them, “Does this offend you?” – John 6:60-61

With a good measure of confidence, I would offer that any preacher worth her or his salt has heard these words or words much like them.  If the conscience of Christ is honestly and forthrightly declared … there will be those who are either offended or dismissive of both the preacher and the message.  I believe it is the challenge within the message of Christ that causes this reaction.

People are resistant to change.  People get set in their ways and their opinions.  People are too proud for their own good; people are too often are more loyal to worldly powers than they are to Christ.  And thus there is often an emotional reaction to a clear statement of Christ’s teaching.

My counsel to most of my Loved Ones is to listen without the perceived need to react or even in respond in the moment.  Then allow what is heard to abide awhile in your soul.  And in time … you may begin to gain a fuller, deeper understanding.

Always in Christ’s Service,

Fr. Charitas de la Cruz