Monday, June 29, 2026

Scripture

“But to what will I compare this generation?  It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’” Matthew 11:16-17

Reflections

It is incredibly frustrating when we hope for someone to embrace Jesus and then they do not.  Family members and friends hear the good news of Jesus and then walk away as if it is nothing.  If we care for them, it breaks our heart.

This kind of experience is not unique to us.  Jesus felt incredible frustration and sadness with people who would not respond.  Being God, he had the power and authority to make anything happen.  Still, he never forced someone to follow him.  He never made someone claim him as Lord.

We love our family members and friends.  We want them to know the goodness of God.  Our intentions are good.  But we cannot force them to trust in Jesus.  We are powerless over how the message of Jesus will be received.  As tempting as it may be to blame ourselves, we are not always the problem.

We’re left with heavy hearts because we care for others.  That care comes from God.  Continue to pray for them.  As long as they’re still walking this earth, there is hope.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the people you place in my life.  Help me to be a faithful witness to you.  Strengthen me in my continual prayer for others.  Grant me peace as I trust them to you.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30