St Luke 9: 44 – 45
While everyone was amazed at all that he was doing, he said to his disciples, ‘Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands.’ But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was concealed from them, so that they could not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Reflection
When my children were young one of their favourite films was A Bugs Life. The bit where the moth flies towards the flame stayed with them and even became a favourite saying. As he flies towards the flame he says: ‘I can’t help it, it’s too beautiful!’ The moth had a feeling that he was heading for trouble but was mesmerised by the flame and attracted by its beauty and allure.
Over the years much hurt and harm has been caused by people whose words or actions have been attention grabbing or immediately engaging. Think of tricksters, charismatic leaders, and celebrities who have been lauded or hailed as special or ‘the next big thing’. People followed, signed up, committed money, or their lives, without discernment, question, or challenge. We all know stories of people being hurt or losing everything.
The people in the story are amazed and because of this are unable to hear what is truly being said because they were afraid to ask. They were so in awe of Jesus that they did not ask questions. Yet we know that Jesus encouraged his followers to think and work things out and use their reasoning and intelligence.
How often in church circles are we afraid to ask? We can find ourselves pretending that we know something because we do not want to look ‘silly’. We assume everyone else knows the answer or teaching and we fear humiliation. Yet when someone is brave enough to admit, ‘I don’t know’ we can find freedom in discussion, in asking questions and seeking answers and that enables us to grow and flourish.
We are fearfully and wonderfully made. We are made in the image of God. We are precious and unique. We are loved. May we not miss the truth because we are too busy being what everyone else expects us to be….and brave enough to ask the stupid question- because as we know, ‘there is no such thing as a stupid question!’ 😊
Prayer
Gracious God,
May we be discerning and questioning and challenging.
May we look carefully and listen wisely.
May we seek truth and authenticity.
May we not miss your word to us because we are too afraid to ask.
And may we create safe spaces where we are able to be real with each other.
Amen.