Persecution Will Come (Part 2)
“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above
his master. It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
In the last healing, Jesus was accused of casting out a demon by the power of Beelzebul... well, they said the prince of demons. Jesus is making the point that he is not evil, or possessed by Beelzebul. It is interesting that instead of
recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, the Pharisees try to explain his powers as evil. Hatred and jealousy can have negative impacts on your perceptions and thoughts. This would have very negative and everlasting results. Tie this into yesterday's
reading that says "He who endures unto the end will be saved."
I pray: O Lord, I recognize you as the Messiah, the Son of God. I know that no evil exists in you. Help me to never doubt
you... and forgive me when I do. Amen.