Readings: Gen 46: 1-7, 28-30; Ps 37; Matt 10: 16-23
This part of the discourse is introduced by 2 metaphors (“wise as serpents and innocent as doves”) that illustrate the dangerous situation of disciples sent on mission. Only by a miracle can sheep survive among wolves. The words "I send you", at the beginning of the text, want to highlight precisely this aspect of protection on the part of Jesus, the Good Shepherd (Jn 10).
But, while trusting in divine protection, human behavior is necessary that takes into account the dangerousness of the situation. The one does not exclude the other. The disciple, in danger, must behave in such a way that his trust in divine protection and the good use of the gifts that God has given him is manifested.
Whatever the particular meaning attributed to the “wise as serpents” and the “innocence of doves”, the attitude of trust in God and that of weighting in human relationships are connected to it. The snake is the symbol of shrewdness, the dove is the symbol of candor.
Fidelity to Christ puts the disciples in contrast even with relatives and fellow countrymen who do not want to accept the proclamation of the Gospel: "You will be hated by all because of my name." The disciple, when persecuted, must persevere to the end (v. 22). There is no alternative. The Gospel is full-time and forever committed. Persecution is part of the history of salvation: it’s the way of the cross that continues. The world hated Christ and continues to hate him in his disciples. The reason for the hatred is always the same: "for because of me." The world hates Christ's disciples because they question it, disturb it, and contest it. Persecution is a magnificent occasion to bear witness to Christ before everyone.
Jesus does not promise his missionaries success and prestige but promises them a destiny of suffering and persecution. They must not worry about aggression, but wait and trust in God's action. The disciple is called to walk the path of witness in suffering, taking Jesus the risen crucifix as a model.