Doing Good When Others Judge

In “Doing Good When Others Judge,” Mark 3 shows how Jesus refused to let criticism or hostility deter Him from healing, choosing obedience to the Father over the approval of the crowd.

“A man was there with a withered hand. And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him … that they might accuse him … his hand was restored. The Pharisees … immediately held council … to destroy him” (Mark 3:1–6).

The Executioner. That is what many considered Claudia Cassidy. This newspaper reporter dominated arts activity in Chicago in the 1940s and ’50s. Feared by many, she often lashed out at musicians, actors, and anyone else who didn’t measure up to her subjective standards. Singlehandedly, her criticism drove two men from their posts as music director of the Chicago Symphony. Many of the people she slandered were honored elsewhere. Many refused to perform in Chicago until she retired.

Jesus knew what it meant to deal with critics. They watched His every move, ready to pass judgment. Some were watching when He entered a synagogue, wondering what He would do for a man with a withered hand. Their entire focus was on finding some way to accuse Jesus.

Jesus called the man, fully aware that these critics were watching. Looking directly at them, He asked, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm?” (v. 4). They had no answer. Jesus was “grieved at their hardness of heart” (v. 5). They were blinded by prejudice, obsessed with criticism, and determined to silence anyone with whom they disagreed. Nevertheless, Jesus healed the man. And the critics immediately began looking for ways to destroy Him.

Many people today have this same spirit, always ready to complain, judge, or criticize. Focus on God’s call on your life, and don’t allow the critics to prevent you from doing His work.

Reflection Question: Will you obey God despite criticism?