If You Do, If You Don’t

Readings: Isaiah 11:1-9; Micah 4:8-13; Luke 7:31-35

“To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon’; the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children.” Luke 7:31-35, NRSV

If I’m inclined to be disappointed, or to find fault, I’ll surely find an excuse to do so. I’ll see what I want to see, regardless of what I am looking at.

If I’m inclined to find satisfaction and amazement, I’ll surely find a reason to do so. I’ll see what I want to see, whatever I’m looking at.

In John’s lifestyle and Jesus’ life choices, I can find reasons enough to criticize and evidence enough to experience God’s presence. What will I claim as truth?

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Johnna

I am a Christian educator and writer.I have worked in churches, denominational offices, and seminaries. I have a PhD in Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary, with a focus on Practical Theology and educating in faith. In 2010, my book, "How the Other Half Lives: the challenges facing clergy spouses and partners," was published by Pilgrim Press. I believe that words can build doorways that lead to encounters with God through the Spirit.

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