Day 284, Year 1
Could People Swallow a Camel?
“You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!” (Matthew 23:24 NASB)
In my opinion, those who guide blindly, much like those who can swallow a camel, possess extraordinary courage or boldness, don’t you think so? They seem to possess a misguided boldness, a blind faith, and blind courage. Some may wonder: on what basis do those who guide blindly have the confidence to lead others’ way? Perhaps, they thought they knew the law accurately at that time. But in Jesus’ view, they had a biased interpretation that gave them a false sense of confidence. Believers should be careful not to lead others just because we have a bit of knowledge. Otherwise, we may also become blind guides and be condemned by Jesus.
It is necessary for followers to understand where the leaders are going: What do they see? What is their vision? What do they see up close? How do they see them? How can they see more clearly? How can we prepare ourselves in a better way for the future? What options are available for the community? What does the Lord reveal about the path ahead? As followers, it is our responsibility to help the leaders clarify the way forward and direction with these relevant questions. In the context of the Pharisees, etc., it was incumbent upon the Israelites to ask: Why was a certain passage interpreted the way they did? Were there possibly any other explanations of greater accuracy? It can be said that the mistakes of the Pharisees, etc., are inexcusable; however, the responsibility of followers should not be overlooked.
How should we understand the impossibility of swallowing a camel? In my opinion, “swallow a camel” may refer to the ways people avoid problems by trying to make them “disappear” into themselves. Yet, how could a “camel” ever “disappear”? Only by running away, concealing, or escaping problems can the act of “swallowing the camel” occur. In other words, the act of “swallowing” the problems symbolizes their habitual attitude of avoiding issues they need to face. However, as Jesus pointed out, if people really “swallow the camel,” how could they possibly not be overwhelmed or stumbled by such substantial problems?
On the contrary, those who believe in Jesus can rely on the Lord to discern the magnitude of various problems and rely on Him to solve them. We continually rely on God to solve different issues in our everyday lives. When facing a cascade of problems in daily life, we keep on praying for the Lord’s guidance and work to enhance our problem-solving ability. Through this process, we cultivate a heart that is more dependent on the Lord, and also exercise our minds to become wiser, more understanding, and competent in various ways.
Reflection questions:
1) If you are a follower, have you often been asking the leaders from time to time the relevant questions mentioned, such as the way forward and direction of the community?
2) Do you tend to avoid, escape, or be consumed by various problems? If so, how would you rely on the Lord to overcome it?