Do you know anyone who irritates you? Seriously, I’m talking about those people who get on your last nerves. I’m referring to the people who make you say to yourself, “If I could just give them a piece of my mind, I’d be OK.” If so, then I know exactly how you feel.
If often marvel at Jesus, for He encountered the same kind of people and didn’t respond like we would. In this text, Jesus encounters the Pharisees (religious leaders), who often had so much to say about everything He did. They were watching Him to see if He’d break the law and heal someone on the Sabbath. Jesus could have said a lot – and I can think of a few responses for Him – but He didn’t. He held His peace and was more bothered by the condition of their heart than their words. He didn’t have to, but He did.
Sometimes, we have to be like Jesus and hold our peace. Even when it’s tempting to “go off” on someone, we must season our words with grace. Jesus knew that this interaction was bigger than Him; His purpose was to bring God glory. And, so is ours. So before you “let them have it,” remember who you represent. It’s not about you!