In the Gospels, we see the tension steadily building between Jesus and the religious leaders — the scribes, the Pharisees, and those who ultimately seek to silence Him.
What’s striking is this: many people hear the Lord. They listen to His words, they’re confronted by the truth. But then, two distinct responses often emerge:
Some hear the word — and change.
Others hear the word — and grow angry.
That pattern hasn’t changed much.
It’s easy to spot which group someone belongs to when we’re reading Scripture. But here’s the real question: Which group do we belong to?
When we’re challenged — by Scripture, by a homily, by a friend speaking truth in love — how do we respond?
Do we pause, reflect, and bring it to prayer, even if it stings a little?
Or do we bristle, grow defensive, dig in our heels?
Jesus doesn’t just want us to hear His word — He wants it to bear fruit. But fruit only grows where hearts are soft enough to receive the seed.
So today, when we hear His voice, let’s not harden our hearts. Let’s lean in. Let’s listen. And let’s allow His word to change us.