The Measured Response

Few things are as frustrating as being the subject of false accusations or ridicule. The first instinct is to defend our honor and reputation. Perhaps the initial response is to attack those who attack us. After all, if we don’t speak up for ourselves, who will?
 
Just as we prepare to defend ourselves, or attack others, here comes Jesus, the only truly innocent person in the history of mankind. He stands falsely accused by the very people He came to save. His accusers misrepresent His words before a court unqualified to judge Him. Fully aware of the horrific fate that awaits, Jesus offers no defense to the charges. He silently takes the slander, humiliation, and cruel torture by His own creation. Jesus’ answer to His accusers and their ridicule was the most powerful and resounding response ever conceived: love and forgiveness.  
 
Jesus warned us, “…If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you…” (John 15:20). If Jesus was the subject of lies, attacks and ridicule, can we expect better treatment? We will always be the subject of speculation, innuendo and outright lies, even within the body of Christ. We live in a world of humans and such things will occur. We cannot control how others treat us, but we can control our responses.  
 
Some accusations are not worthy of a response, a defense, or even an acknowledgement. Imagine if we were to offer a defense for every lie or rumor for which we are the subject. Certainly, there are times we should refute false charges and guard our reputations. Yet, we should be wise and discerning about how we defend ourselves. Never with animosity or in retaliation, but with grace and love.
 
Jesus’ graceful response to everything He faced was a cause of amazement to many, to include Pontius Pilate. Consider Jesus’ example. We can devote time to defending ourselves and attacking others, or respond to those attacks with love and forgiveness, and give witness to the Lord. One drags us down into the cesspool and fray found in a battle of words and retribution. The other gives an everlasting witness to the Savior we serve. The choice is ours.