In today's Gospel, Mt. 9: 32-32, Jesus casts out a demon who had silenced a man--he was unable to speak, to enter into conversation, to take part in a normal life with his family, friends, synagogue-goers. Some Pharisees, looking on and seeing what Jesus did do not join those who are astounded by Jesus' compassionate response to the mute man but belittle Him, saying: "He drives out demons by the prince of demons." They are threatened by Jesus but Jesus is not threatened by them. Notice, that Jesus pays no attention to them. He does not internalize their message. He is strong in His self-identity. His confidence in Himself, His acceptance of Himself and the responsibilities God the Father has given Him to do do not waver. He knows who He is, moves on and becomes involved in the lives of ordinary individuals, continuing to show God's compassion to them: casting out "demons" that take away their voices, that alienate them from others, that deny them a normal life with family, friends, fellow worshippers and the civic community. He heals their illnesses, calms their fears, teaches them about the reign of God in their midst; in short, goes about doing good.
What do you and I do when others oppose us, speak ill of us? Do we move on and continue doing what God has called us to do here on earth? Or to we get caught up in their disparaging words, take them on, internalize their message for whatever reason? Or have we developed an inner strength, know who we are and what we are about and what our responsibilities are in building the kingdom of love and mercy and understanding and compassion?
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