Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Matthew 11:16-19 

“[Jesus spoke to the crowd saying:] “To what will I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon’; the Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds.” 

Jesus is certainly spicy today! What exactly is he talking about? In this section of the text, our savior is talking about himself and other prophets who have brought the good news of the gospel, and yet, have still been rejected. It never feels good to be rejected, no matter the situation; but perhaps especially as the savior of the world, who has come for the love and new life of all! It must have stung to be ignored, disbelieved, and even driven out. No wonder Jesus has a heart that is hurting; he wants all the world to know about God’s unending love, and he just can’t get anyone to listen right now! This lament from Jesus reminds us that God, as a human being, God does indeed have feelings. It also gives us courage and hope when we have these feelings, too. Because we know the full story of God’s new life and mercy, we know that Jesus’ feelings for us do not end in actions of judgement, wrath an danger, but rather, in service, sacrifice, forgiveness and mercy. At our worst moments, it’s more than we deserve; but that’s what God’s Love looks like. 

– Pr. Alex

Let us pray: God of forgiveness, we thank you for having mercy on us. When we face one another with anger, frustration, rejection and doubt, help us to see one another through your eyes of love. We thank you that you love us so much better than we ever could. Amen.