Conclusion of The Source Of Happiness

However, Jesus quickly corrects the woman regarding the true source of happiness. "No, he responds, "rather happy are those hearing the word of God and keeping it!" Never did Jesus imply that his mother, Mary, should be given special honor. Instead, he showed that true happiness is found in being a faithful servant of God, not in any physical ties or accomplishments.

As he did in Galilee, Jesus also goes on to rebuke the people in Judea for requesting a sign from heaven. He tells them that no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. Jonah became a sign both by his three days in the fish and by his bold preaching, which resulted in the Ninevites' being moved to repent. "But, look!" Jesus says, "something more than Jonah is here." Similarly, the queen of Sheba marveled at Solomon's wisdom. "But, look!" Jesus also says, "something more than Solomon is here."

Jesus explains that when a person lights a lamp, he does not put it in a vault or under a basket but upon a lampstand so that people can see the light. Perhaps he is intimating that teaching and performing miracles before these obstinate persons in his audience is comparable to hiding the light of a lamp. The eyes of such observers are not simple, or in focus, so the intended purpose of his miracles is not accomplished.

Jesus had just expelled a demon and had caused a mute man to speak. This should motivate people with simple, or focused eyes to praise this glorious feat and proclaim the good news! Yet, with these critics, this is not what occurs. So Jesus concludes: "Be alert, therefore. Perhaps the light that is in you is darkness. Therefore, if your whole body is bright with no part at all dark, it will be as bright as when a lamp gives you light by its rays." Luke 11:14-36; Exodus 8:18, 19; 31:18; Matthew 12:22, 28.

Next time: Dining With A Pharisee

The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991