September 5, 2023

John 8:48-49 (HCSB)
Jesus and Abraham
48 The Jews responded to Him, “Aren’t we right in saying that You’re a Samaritan and have a demon?” 49 “I do not have a demon,” Jesus answered. “On the contrary, I honor My Father and you dishonor Me.

Jennifer Kirkup
Be a light, not a “shade”.  True example of pettiness. Mocking and slurs taking the place of actual discussions. Calling Jesus a Samaritan mocked His birth, accused Him of heresy. Calling Him demon possessed was basically equivalent of calling Him crazy, mentally unstable. Those opposed to Jesus resulted to petty insults. You can’t win an argument, but you sure can attack your opponent. You can attempt to throw some “shade”. Jesus and His word still challenges those who oppose Him. He even challenges us, His followers, when we get out of line. God disciplines those He loves to change us; to conform us into the image of Christ. How do you respond? Do you get defensive? Do you get petty? Do you begin to throw “shade”? Learn from those hard hearted Jews when He challenges us. Be a light, not one throwing “shade”.