Reflect today on how you normally think and talk about others

A demonic who could not speak was brought to Jesus, and when the demon was cast out the silent man spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, "Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel." But the Pharisees said, "Drive out demons from the demon prince." Matthew 9: 32-34

What a stark contrast we see in the crowd's reaction to the Pharisees' reaction. It is actually a rather sad contrast.

The reaction of the crowd, in the sense of ordinary people, was of amazement. Their reaction reveals a simple and pure faith that accepts what it sees. What a blessing to have this form of faith.

The reaction of the Pharisees was judgment, irrationality, jealousy and harshness. Above all, it is irrational. What would induce the Pharisees to conclude that Jesus "chases demons from the prince of demons?" Certainly it was nothing that Jesus did that would lead them to this conclusion. Therefore, the only logical conclusion is that the Pharisees were full of a certain jealousy and envy. And these sins led them to this ridiculous and irrational conclusion.

The lesson we should learn from this is that we must approach other people with humility and honesty rather than jealousy. By seeing those around us with humility and love, we will naturally come to genuine and honest conclusions about them. Humility and sincere love will allow us to see the goodness of others and to rejoice in that goodness. Of course, we will also be aware of sin, but humility will help us avoid making rash and irrational judgments about others because of jealousy and envy.

Reflect today on how you normally think and talk about others. Do you tend to be more like the crowds who saw, believed and marveled at the good things that Jesus did? Or are you more like the Pharisees who tend to manufacture and exaggerate in their conclusions. Commit yourself to the normality of the crowd so that you too can find joy and wonder in Christ.

Lord, I wish to have a simple, humble and pure faith. Help me to see you also in others in a humble way. Help me to see you and be amazed by your presence in the life of those I meet every day. Jesus I believe in you.