When he said this, all his opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things that he was doing.” vs. 17
Luke 13:15-17
Jesus hadn’t minced words when he corrected the leader of the synagogue and his cronies. He called them hypocrites, and the people responded with rejoicing. Not only were they happy to see the bent woman straightened; but they were also likely thrilled to see the religious leaders put in their place. There’s nothing like hypocritical piety to rankle the feelings of the faithful, especially when the offenders are masquerading as leaders. Jesus had warned against practicing one’s piety before others, to be seen by them, and this was a case in point.
We still don’t like those kinds of “holier-than-thou” attitudes in our faith communities; and when pastors and preachers are the offenders, it can get ugly. It happens when leaders are tempted to tap into the perceived power of their position in their efforts to lead. Jesus taught that leaders are called to bring healing to the broken, and to adopt a servant attitude in their leading. He wasn’t afraid to put them in their place! Sometimes we wonder whose responsibility it is to shine light on hypocrisy. Not many like to take the risk of confrontation! But sometimes, for the health of the community it must be done. Blessed is those who have a heart for the task!
Thought for the Day: When might I call someone a hypocrite?
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