"See I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves;
so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."
- Matthew 10:16
This morning I share this quote from the Gospel of Matthew. The same story appears in Luke's Gospel as well, but "wise" is translated as shrewd. Regardless of how these words are translated, Jesus was advising his disciples on how to go out into the world - but not to become part of the world.
To be in the world, they will need to be wise and shrewd, because they will come across townspeople who will range from mere naysayers to people who will want to kill them. But through their mission, they are to remain as innocent as doves. They are to follow their Teacher by His example of being blameless - gentle and humble of heart.
How do you feel as a believer at this time in history? Do you sometimes feel like you are a lamb among wolves? Do you often run into those wolves in sheep's clothing we've been warned about? Is it possible to be in the world without being part of the world - can you maintain your innocent outlook, your hope, and your faith? Do you buy into the world's empty promises, or are you able to wisely choose what you think will be pleasing to God? Do you even want to please God?
The next time your faith and resolution gets weakened by the pack animals of this world, remember these reassuring words of Jesus, as Chapter 10 continues:
"And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body...
Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin?
Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's knowledge.
Even all the hairs of your head are counted.
So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin?
Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's knowledge.
Even all the hairs of your head are counted.
So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
- Matthew 10: 28-31
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