Choose to grow

By what authority are you doing these things? (Mark 11:28)

How do you react when someone lets you know that you did something wrong? For most of us, our reactions vary depending on the circumstance, the people involved, and even our mood at the time. Sometimes it’s anger, sometimes denial; sometimes we completely miss what the other person is trying to say to us. But the best response is also the most difficult: acceptance. To acknowledge that we were wrong, to acknowledge that we need to change, to apologize—this isn’t always easy.

We see one version of this played out in today’s Gospel reading. Just before this passage, Jesus had overturned the tables of the money changers in the Temple. Now some leaders come to Jesus and challenge his authority. “Who do you think you are?” they essentially ask. When Jesus questions their actions and motivations, they respond with defensiveness and hostility, and not much self-examination.

People around us bring up our errors for a variety of reasons. Some want the best for us, and they come to us in love. Others may be motivated by jealousy, insecurity, or anger. For many, there is a mixture of motives. But when Jesus “opposes” us, he has only one motivation: love. He has our best interests at heart. He engages us, he asks questions, he tries to deepen his relationship with us and purify our relationships with each other. He gives us a chance to grow. 

The religious leaders in today’s Gospel missed an opportunity. They were caught up in a conflict, and they didn’t let Jesus’ words touch them personally. Because they rejected him, Jesus didn’t press the issue—just as he doesn’t with us. He doesn’t just unilaterally change us; he always looks for our cooperation.

So what can we do to make sure we don’t miss opportunities to grow? First, be attentive. Listen for his voice throughout your day—in prayer, in the voice of a friend, in your conscience, or even out of the blue. Second, be receptive to what you hear, even when it’s hard. Choose to grow, and ask for his help.

Pay attention today to how you pay attention. See if you can hear the Lord as he deepens his work in you.

“Lord, help me recognize your gentle, encouraging words of correction today.”

from wau.org