Matthew 9:3-4
At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, "This man is blaspheming." Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, "Why do you harbor evil thoughts?
Earlier this month we were witness to the tragic shooting of innocents in Orlando. Following the shooting, there was an outpouring of emotion: grief, anger, sadness, resentment, fear, and pain. With the amount of social media, everyone felt compelled to share in their emotions in words. From the president to national and local figures, to the man on the street, everyone had something to say. But when someone says something that goes against a truth, then the anger and vitriol boils over. Everyone is looking to point a finger. When the child climbed into the gorilla home, some opined that the parents should be to blame. When the tragic killing of a child at Disney World happened, "Disney is to blame!" cried the people. When Jesus was speaking truth to the temple authorities, "Blasphemy!!!" they shouted.
Today's reading tells us of Jesus healing the paralytic, both from his physical ailment and from his sins. Instead of the witnesses rejoicing for this miracle before their eyes, they cry out, "This man is blaspheming!" They were angry. How dare he say those things. Our church leaders, from Pope Francis to our local bishops and priest have been given a responsibility to proclaim the truth, no matter the pain it might bring, or the suffering brought on by its telling. But we have to learn to accept the truth. We have to show mercy and compassion. Our leaders aren't the only ones though tasked with speaking out. As Christians we are too. Are you willing to stand up for your faith and live it? Or do you compromise your values societal trends? Pray for God's healing in our society today.
