DON’T LET THE WORLD CHANGE YOU

Reference text: Matthew 26:14-27:44

In the homily following the reading of the Passion of Christ today from Matthew’s account, the core take away was “Don’t allow the world to change you.”

If there is a common thing among people, it is their reactivity to situations and experiences. Therefore, depending on what happens, most people alter their way of living to reflect the change. When betrayed, we become less trusting and put up walls. When lied to, we become more proving, when   rejected, we stop stepping forward and withdraw. 

One statement in the Gospel was relevant while reflecting on the text. For someone close to you to betray you for money would have been a punch in the gut. Enough to leave you breathless and shocked. However, we notice that even immediately after the betrayal, Jesus referred to Judas thus “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for”(Matt 26:50). That highlighted the consistent and unchanging nature of Christ.

In this world, you will pass through many hands with different treatments and encounters from all of them. Whether it is a version of the crowd, pilate, the disciples, or the Pharisees, each will deal with you differently according to their desire. Yet, like Jesus, yours is to remain consistent in love.

#sly