Children in Market Places

Written By Benjamin Dankaka

Know that whichever way you pursue your purpose; you will be criticized.

Once, Jesus compared the attitude of the people to a situation in the marketplace where a group of children grumbled because the people didn’t dance after they played a flute. And when they sang a funeral song, the people didn’t mourn. This analogy captures the way the Jews had responded to the ministry of John the Baptist and that of Jesus. When John came and preached in an unusual way, the Jews called him a “demon”. And when Jesus Himself came and preached the same gospel but in a familiar manner, the people also hurled insults at Him.

Know that whichever way you pursue your purpose; you will be criticized. Naturally, leaders are criticized because they are driven by a distinctive purpose. Their uniqueness is what makes them break traditions. When John the Baptist came, He had a unique message, accompanied by an extraordinary style. Unlike the Pharisees, he drank no wine, lived in the wilds and only ate locusts. Jesus on the other hand, interacted with people, even though He also preached. And in contrast to the Pharisees, he mingled with “sinners”. So He was also criticized. But despite the criticisms, John and Jesus succeeded. You too will succeed!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, give me the strength to face criticisms. Amen.

REFERENCES/FURTHER STUDY: Matthew 11:1-19

Unless otherwise stated all scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, New International Version.