Trapped In Your Own Web

Monday, July 25, 2011

Reading: Mark 11:27-33

Reflection: Have you ever seen a fly, or some other kind of bug, trapped in a spider web? It's a tragic thing, at least for the bug. The more they struggle and fight to get free, the more trapped and tangled they become. Eventually, out of strength and hope, the bug gives up hope and eventually loses its life. It seems to me that the religious leaders here are much like a bug in a web...with one important distinction. The religious leaders are caught in a web of their own making. They refused to believe in the baptism of John, even though the people accepted him as a prophet. Because John's ministry was outside the bounds of their control...because John was willing to challenge their false sense of religion rather than play their games...they refused to accept him. Even in this passage, it becomes clear that what they believe about John has more to do with political maneuvering than genuine conviction. Now, they question Jesus' authority for much the same reason they questioned John's. However, Jesus confronts them with a question that threatens to expose them for what they really are, and they buckle. Realizing they are trapped in their own web of deceptions, they lose yet another chance to place their faith in Christ. I wonder if I am ever in danger of this reality? Seeking to be a faithful follower of Jesus while at the same time seeking to fit in with the larger culture, crafting words and explanations of my faith that in the end will get me caught in a web. I hope not. Getting caught in a web rarely leads to freedom. It seems better to make a clear choice, and then live on that conviction without seeking to compromise or maneuver for position.