No respect for Christ or John

Gospel

Matthew 11:16-19

They heed neither John nor the Son of Man

Jesus spoke to the crowds: ‘What description can I find for this generation? It is like children shouting to each other as they sit in the market place:

“We played the pipes for you,

and you wouldn’t dance;

we sang dirges,

and you wouldn’t be mourners.”

‘For John came, neither eating nor drinking, and they say, “He is possessed.” The Son of Man came, eating and drinking, and they say, “Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” Yet wisdom has been proved right by her actions.’

Short Reflection

Jesus paints a picture of a generation that refuses to be pleased, not because the message is flawed, but because their hearts are closed. They found fault with John the Baptist's asceticism, calling him possessed, and they find fault with Jesus' approachability, calling him a glutton. The problem is not the style of the messenger, but the unwillingness of the audience to respond to the substance of the message. This reveals a hard truth: a heart determined to reject God will always find an excuse. It will criticize both solemn piety and joyful engagement. Yet, Jesus concludes, true wisdom is not validated by popular opinion, but by its results—"by her actions." The fruit of the Kingdom, not the fickle judgment of the crowd, is the final proof.

Question for Reflection

In what ways do I sometimes make excuses or find faults to avoid responding fully to God's call, whether it comes through a challenging word or a gracious invitation?

Short Prayer

Lord of Wisdom, free me from a critical and fickle spirit. When your word challenges me through a prophet's austerity, give me a listening heart. When it invites me through a Savior's mercy, give me a receptive joy. Help me to recognize your voice in all its forms and to be proven right by my faithful response. Amen.

Comments

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