Say to them:This is the nation that does not listen
to the voice of the LORD, its God,
or take correction.
Faithfulness has disappeared;
the word itself is banished from their speech.
In today's gospel Jesus argues the rationality of his teaching, as opposed to his enemies who make no sense at all. Why would Satan drive out Satan? I am reminded of President Obama's recent question, "Would a president running for reelection want higher gas prices?" There seems no end of irrationality to which one's opponents will not go.
But Jesus' situation is infinitely sorrier than that which confronts our befuddled Republicans and Democrats . He offers the fullness of the saving word to God's elect in all its purity, simplicity and power -- and they argue with him! They will not "take correction" no matter how persuasively or gently it is presented.
Periodically I read the pundits who think the answer to today's problem is better education. Given all the facts our teens will not have children out of wedlock, start smoking, use marijuana, or bully one another.
But education cannot touch a perverse spirit. It laughs in the face of good intentions. In too many cases teens at risk see the duplicity of their elders. They are told, "Do as I say, not as I do." As if!
They are, however, impressed by authenticity, as is everyone. Jesus' integrity, lifted high on a cross, stands above all the absurdity, dishonesty and perversity of this world. His spirit still gathers a Church to proclaim his story. The Gospel is just as persuasive today as it was when Saint Paul challenged his Galatian disciples:
It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly exhibited as crucified!
Jesus says of us to our children,
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.
For they preach but they do not practice.
They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry
and lay them on people's shoulders,
but they will not lift a finger to move them.
All their works are performed to be seen.
We have to wonder how cracked and leaky vessels of clay can contain His Gospel and pass it along from one generation to the next. It is certainly not by our efforts. Rather, it is the Spirit which preserves the memory of Jeremiah and the Prophets, of Jesus and the Apostles. It is that Spirit whose reasoning is still persuasive despite the poverty of those who keep it. 
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.