The Bitter Side of Truth.

Monday 30th August 2021. Read 1st Thess. 4:13-18, Psalm 96 and Luke 4:16-30

“When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. And they rose up and put him out of the city, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw him down headlong.” (Luke 4:28-29)

In today’s Gospel passage, we see that what began as a happy reception of Jesus eventually turned into an attempt to kill him. What was responsible for this sudden change of attitude? Truth.

It was the usual custom of Jesus to go to the Synagogue in Nazareth. On this day, Jesus decided to step into the podium to proclaim the message. Luke reported that “all spoke well of him and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded from his mouth.”

So why was Jesus almost thrown him off the cliff? By reminding them about the widow of Zarephath and Naaman the Syrian, Jesus made them understand the Good News of salvation was not exclusive to the Nation of Israel. Even before Jesus was born, God intended salvation for the whole of mankind.

Jesus told them the truth, but it was just too bitter to swallow. To this day, people do not like to be told the truth. The prosperity gospel has become so popular in our day because it is the opium of the masses; it is exciting and thrilling. It makes you forget your sorrows and hope that everything would be fine.

We must face the truth, we Nigerians (along with our government) have failed and there is no amount of shouting in our churches daily that can change our situation. For instance, if you refuse to do any work, shouting “I receive it” in Church will not put millions of naira in your pocket. 

If you as a person continue living in sin, telling lies, and deceiving people, you are part of the problem of our country and until you repent, things will only get worse. All our prayers would become useless if none of us is ready to do the right thing. 

Let us pray:  Lord Jesus, may the truth of your word guide my life. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Monday of week 22 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1st Thess. 4:13-18, Psalm 96 and Luke 4:16-30).