Walk On By

So often we tend to lash out when our feelings are hurt. That is exactly what was going on in today's Gospel (Luke 9: 51-56). The disciples were upset because the people of a Samaritan town did not want to welcome the m and the Lord, since they were going to Jerusalem. They wanted to hurt the people, asking if they should call down fire from heaven to consume them" (as if they could!).  The reply of the Lord was basically "Forget about it". He simply continued and went to another village where He was welcomed.
This is a great lesson for all of us. People can do things that upset and hurt us, either intentionally or unintentionally. We may be tempted to fire back, usually in anger. But the Lord gives us a different example. Especially when our feelings are hurt, we need to remove ourselves from the situation if possible and move on. We know that there are always people who may not like us, our ideas or plans. But we can forget that there are usually even more people who do like us, who are excited by our ideas and who want to see us succeed with our plans. These are the people we need to encourage us. Now, we have to be careful that we do not ignore proper criticism and think that we are always right. There is certainly a place to listen to the advice of trusted family m,embers, friends and co-workers. But if we find ourselves trying to do God's will and running into fierce opposition or maybe indifference, it may be the Lord trying to tell us to move on.
There are plenty of people who want to see us reach our goal - heaven. When we encounter those who do not, take the advice of Jesus. Don't get upset, angry or seek retribution. Just walk on by!