Mark 9:33, 34 They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
Sometimes the best thing we can do is shut up and listen. There are stories in the gospels where the disciples, particularly Peter, speak impulsively and have to be put in their place by Jesus. Let’s face it; we all do that at times. When we are confronted with our errors of action or errors of attitude we are tempted to “double down” and try to talk, or worse shout, our way through it. Maybe the disciples are finally showing some maturity here by just being quiet and listening. The teaching that follows is surprisingly gentle. Confessing our faults is not a matter of magic words that earn freedom from punishment. Confession is about emptying the wrong in our hearts and lives into the hands of a gracious God so that we are free to hear how to move on in love and goodness. Where in your life this week do you need to shut your mouth and open your heart to God and God’s children? How will you do that?
Logan Memorial Presbyterian Church 