October 25, 2024

Luke 12:54-59

Today Jesus continues to reflect on his mission on earth.  He tells the crowds that while they are good at reading the signs of the weather, for example knowing it will rain when large clouds appear in the west or that it will be hot when wind comes from the south, why do they not similarly trust their own perceptions in reading the signs of the current time? The unspoken message is that these are the signs that align with all the predictions of the coming of the Messiah and Kingdom of God. To Jesus, these signs are obvious and are fulfilling what has been written. 

He asks the crowds why they not trust their own perceptions and their own judgment. He is implying, why do they accept the version of events surrounding Jesus that is given by the authorities, rather than trusting their own perceptions of what is right in front of them?  He then gives an example of what happens when people trust the authorities over their own judgment.  In this example, he says why would you let a disagreement with an accuser go before a magistrate, when you could end up in jail?  Why not settle the matter (according to Jewish law, such as by paying recompense) on the road to the magistrate, so you come to an agreement on your own.  This is an example of trusting your own judgment rather than handing over your power to the authorities.

In this parable, he is not telling people to break the law or go against the authorities of government.  Rather he is asking them to listen to their inner voice, trust their own perceptions especially regarding the activity of God in their lives, pay attention to the signs that God is sending them, and form their own conclusions. If they do that, they may see the Messiah in person before them and certainly they will not be blocking him.  Amen.

Personal: Similarly, listen to what your body and mind are telling you.  You do not have to subject yourself to difficult or even punitive circumstances to receive the grace of the Lord.  If one is to be treated as having a disability without accommodation, then one will act as a person with a disability without accommodation.  All will be well.

Do you think I am only in certain locations? says the Lord.  There you go again, thinking such silly human thoughts.  You will come into your own more here.