Defensiveness

You say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would never have joined them in killing the prophets.’ But in saying that, you testify against yourselves that you are indeed the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. - Matthew 23:30-31

In the above passage, Jesus is talking with religious people about being defensive. “We’d never do something like that!” is what they are saying. He responds with, “Well, that obviously means you would of course do something like that!” Our defensiveness gives us away! Anytime we’re defensive, we’re covering something up. What are we trying to protect ourselves from? Are we feeling guilty, either from something we’ve already done, something we’re planning to do, or something we’re desiring (but maybe don’t have the guts to do)?

What if instead, and right up front, we admitted our brokenness, our impure desires, and our checkered past? It’s hard to imagine that Jesus would be that surprise. And it’s hard to imagine that he’d turn away.

Take some time today to admit some things to Jesus. If you’re not sure what to admit to, think about the last time you got defensive to someone - a friend, a family member, a coworker. Then ask yourself what were you trying to protect - and talk with Jesus about that thing.