Offensive

     Have you every noticed that the truth is offensive.  I have learned that I am at times too honest for my own.  It has held me back in the work force, but it has made genuine friendships stronger.  Then, I look at Jesus and my perspective changes to gratitude because I understand there is a difference in being honest in love and respect versus speaking truth to gain something (sarcasm at the expense of someone, speaking in anger, or to pointedly hurt someone).
     Jesus was rejected in His home town because they could not accept the truth.  They took offense to Him.  It must have been very hard for Him to love the people, but see that they had no faith.  However, He would not let other people stop His purpose.  He focused on His twelve friends and what they could accomplish.  He taught them how to go out in pairs.  He knew that the job was too hard to do alone.  We all need another person in different aspects of our lives.  He meant it for our protection.
     Telling the truth can cause problems.  For John the Baptist, it cost him his head.  He spoke out against the grievous sin of adultery which offended powerful people.  They made a game out of his life.  Yet, fear should never stop you from being honest or living a life of integrity.  
     Continue to do what is righteous even if it cost you here and now.  Show compassion to people.  It is how you keep your heart open and soft to serve Jesus best.  Allow your faith to grow under the pressure of society and see what God can do in your life.  A life of faith hold more power than anything else in this world, but it is offensive to those in the world.

Mark 6