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Matthew 10:16-20, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,  for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 

Here we are – back to the sheep!  Jesus sends out the disciples to proclaim that the Kingdom of God is near.  But the danger is real.  Jesus warns them that they would be sheep among wolves.  Remember, sheep are vulnerable.  So while Jesus is saying they are like sheep, he is also telling them to be shrewd and cunning, like a snake.  Yes, sheep are vulnerable but they don’t need to be stupid.  When faced with difficult circumstances, Jesus-followers need to use their brains and really think about what they say and do.  And yet, while shrewdness is important, so is innocence.  Be as innocent as a dove, Jesus says.  This means to stay faithful and gentle as well.  Remember who you are, who you represent, and that you can be faithful to Jesus and grace-filled AND also not be a doormat.   

Jesus is clear.  There will be consequences to following him.  The world around us won’t be happy about it.  Thankfully, we aren’t flogged or jailed for our belief in the United States.  But let’s remember that Christians in other countries certainly experience this on a regular basis.  I know that the Holy Spirit guides their words and gives them strength that we can’t even imagine. 

That being said, we do still experience difficulty.  When we speak out for our faith, we often will see opposition.  In those cases, allow the Holy Spirit to speak through you.  Trust God.  Set aside your own fears and anger and allow the God of the universe to allow his words to flow through you.   

Let’s pray…God, Give us your words, your grace, and your wisdom.  Speak through me, Lord Jesus, in such a way that brings you glory.  Amen.