Matthew 10:16
Jesus said to his Apostles: "Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves."
Have you ever been 'dissed' by someone? Disappointed in someone or disrespected by their words or actions? Stabbed in the back by someone close to you? We probably have at some point. It might have been a spouse, an old boyfriend or girlfriend, a parent or a child, even a trusted co-worker or boss. These attacks are the most painful because we let our guard down and became vulnerable. Unfortunately, we may have been the ones who did the 'stabbing.' We try to justify our actions, but usually because of pride, personal advancement, protection of our ego, etc., we compromise our values to the detriment of others.
Yesterday's reading from Matthew told us that the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand and that we should prepare ourselves to go out into the world with holy boldness despite life's storms. Today we continue this dialog in Matthew. Jesus describes the treacherous world with all of the hidden dangers and attacks by both the stranger and those who are closest to you. Today's reading is a sobering one because as Christians we will face many trials. However we are called not to compromise our values and beliefs for personal approval or advancement. We are called to stay true to the Christian Way, to stay on the right path, to be wary of dangers while keeping life simple and peaceful, like a dove.
God, keep us on the right path, keep us from the temptations of the world and to always stay focused on you, ever watchful of the evil ones who would strike us down.
