INTOLERABLE LANGUAGE

Gospel of John, 6:60-69 Sunday, 22nd August, 2021

“After hearing Jesus (as he taught in the synagogue at Capernaum), many of his followers said, ‘This is intolerable language! How could anyone accept it?”. (John 6:60)

Many years ago, there was a popular comedy show on our television screens called, “Mind Your Language.” It was set in a school where students from various ethnic backgrounds learnt English. It gently made fun of the relationship between people struggling with the foibles of the English language, and their teachers who were also struggling with their task. Anyone who has tried to learn or teach another language could relate to it.

The study of language is a fascinating subject, as is the way it is used and the incredible power it has. The demagogues of history are witness to this. Good and bad people alike know how to use words, as do those involved in the advertising and media worlds.

Jesus was a linguistic master, and yes, at times He did not “mind His language”! He understood the power of the word. His sermons and parables touched the hearts of His followers at the time He spoke them, and since then they have been translated into countless languages and continue to impact the lives of those who hear and read them.

So much of what He said was uplifting, inspiring, heartening and encouraging. Yet, at the same time, He could be very challenging, saying things that caused His listeners to say, “This is intolerable language! How could anyone accept it?”

Each time we read or listen to a Gospel we are invited to question what Jesus says to us. The words of the Sermon on the Mount, in particular, which are “feel good” to many, can also be intolerable language if we really think about them and allow ourselves to be challenged by them.

For short periods of time, Jesus was incredibly popular. The Scriptures mention thousands of people flocking to hear Him. Yet Jesus’ language which initially dazzled the crowds didn’t take root in the hearts of many. What happened on Good Friday showed this.

Today’s Gospel text invites us to consider where we stand in relation to what Jesus said, and says to us. Surely there is nothing wrong with choosing passages of Scripture that touch our hearts and refresh, comfort and restore us, but let’s allow ourselves to be challenged as well. Feeling comfortable is beautiful, but feeling uncomfortable at times can trigger action that is needed if Jesus’ plan for humanity is to be realized.

Divine WORD Missionaries always have before them the words of John, “The Word became flesh, He lived among us, and we saw His glory.” (John 1:14) The glory of God is reflected in the spoken words of Jesus, both the gentle and the harsh, the comfortable and uncomfortable. Jesus’ disciples are called to embrace them all, and to encourage others to do the same. Did Jesus use intolerable language? Yes, He did! Our challenge is to ponder it, and take all of what He said to heart.