I was struck this morning by how often proud people mocked Jesus. I’ve been reading the Gospel of Matthew and reached the section about Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. I was amazed.
- The religious leaders of the time mocked Jesus at his trial and his crucifixion.
- The Roman soldiers mocked Jesus as they scourged him and killed him.
- The crowd at the cross mocked him.
- Even the criminals who died with him mocked him.
And Jesus just quietly proceeded to do his Father’s will. No retorts. No displays of his power. No arguments. He just did what he came to do, endured the disrespect and abuse, and went on.
He “went on” to save and forgive those doing the mocking…and me.
Humans, by their very nature, seek power and control. And if they have power and control, they look down on those who don’t. It is simple pride and is likely the leading cause of spiritual blindness, as well as most of the pain throughout all of humanity. There will be no pride, or mockery, in heaven.
But here on Earth, pride and mockery are rampant, and quiet humble endurance is a badge of Christianity.
Lord, help me to just quietly do your will. Help me keep go forward when the world around me believes I’m a fool. Help me to answer the world with kindness, patience, and forgiveness. Help me to be like you so I can be closer to you.
