Love in opposition

When Jesus healed a blind man, he met some surprising - to us - opposition (see John 9). Before Jesus healed the man, his disciples were so keen to find someone or something to blame for the man's problems. Was he blind because of his own or his parents' sins (see John 9:2)? Unlike the society around him, Jesus wasn't looking to blame the man or his family; he was only concerned with healing him. So that's what he did. But then the Pharisees got in on the act (John 9:16). Since they had their own strict, worked-out ideas on exactly what was and wasn't important to God, they were quick to judge Jesus (who, actually, was God... umm, awkward) for not agreeing with what they expected.

Sometimes, it seems we can't please anyone... Know the feeling? But how does Jesus respond? He keeps calm and, more importantly, keeps his centrepoint of love. Despite all that went down in John 9, nothing fazed him, because he knew that he did what his Father wanted.

When we're pushing closer to God, we can know we have purpose. Then, because we know he's with us, we have confidence to answer our critics with a (loving) smile that says,

'I know what I'm doing. God has given me all I need to succeed.'



So what now? Going through something that's bringing opposition? Make time today to bring it before God. Ask: 'Am I defending this because of what I want or because you are in it?' Take as long as you need to chat about any opposition you get with him.





— SCRIPTURE —

'So the power of God could be seen in him.' John 9:3 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

1 Thes 1-5, Luke 9:37-45, Ps 145:1-13, Pro 4:20-22