Devotion:
Read Matthew 27:38-44.
“I was right!” We all like to be able to say (or at least think) those words. When we have a disagreement with someone or some group and some situation turns out the way we had predicted, or affirms what we thought, there is a certain amount of satisfaction (or at least relief) that comes with that outcome.
As Jesus went about teaching and healing and conducting his ministry among the people, the religious leaders had tried to tell them that Jesus was not who he claimed to be: he was not the Messiah, the Son of God. As they stood there watching Jesus suffer crucifixion, this was their proof that they were right. It was foolish to even think that the Son of God would submit to hanging on a cross. Someone in the crowd is quoted as offering that exact thinking: “Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” Of course, most of them went on believing they were right about Jesus for the rest of their life. They may have heard the rumor that he had risen from the dead, but for them that was foolish as well.
In the thinking of this world, they were right. But in representing God (as was their role), they were wrong. It is a good reminder that we should always examine our thinking and beliefs for how they relate to God’s ways being different than the ways of this world.
Personal Worship Option:
Offer this prayer or put it in your own words: Holy God, thank you for this reminder that even people who say they believe in you can be wrong about what you are doing in the world. Help me to always follow your way, even when it looks foolish and weak in this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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