Today's Gospel reading relates yet another episode wherein Jesus encountered opposition from the Pharisees who seemed determined that they should find some fault in Him. Yet, Jesus is able to stand His ground with them.

Similarly, St Paul writes to the community in Corinth amidst a situation of some conflict and division, the only difference here being that it was from within, rather than from without the community. This would have been particularly hard for him as he sees himself as the 'father' of the community, having first evangelised them. Yet, he does not turn away from them. He seeks to understand and correct those who see things differently. He points out the difficulties and trial that he and the other leaders have lived through, to the point of being 'fools for Christ'. Yet, all these difficulties have not detered him from living out and voicing his convictions - his faith enables him to go on and on, despite it all.

Today, we are challenged to look at the way that we handle criticisms and opposition. Do they cause us to run away and give up in despair and hurt or do we get defensive and try to protect ourselves at all costs even if we have to be as nasty as our 'enemies'? Perhaps we need to rely on God's strength that we may stand up and speak the truth in love, seeking not to win the 'battle' but rather to win over persons, thus leading to victory.