John 10:25

Jesus replies, “Seriously? Have I not told you this many times in the past? Have you even taken a step in my direction? I do not think so. But the fact remains that the deeds I do on behalf of my Father in heaven—they are all the proof I need to verify my claims.  John 10:25 EFP 

What do the Jewish death squad expect the response from Jesus to be? How else could he have couched his response to their challenge? They are already convinced in their own minds about Jesus. So Jesus gives them an answer they can chew on.

First, it makes no difference what he says. They are not interested. Their past behavior is a clear indication of their present motives. They will not believe regardless what he says. Secondly, he has no interest in having their approval or receiving their validation for his ministry or mission. His deeds are self-evident proof of the source of his power. His ministry does not rise or fall on their approval.

I wonder at times if I am in danger of seeking validation and confirmation from people regarding the validity of my ministry. It’s easy to do. The compliments regarding the sermon at the end of the service. The affirmation for a good deed done for a parishioner. But such compliments can be easily dissipated in a moment and replaced by criticism and contempt. My validation comes from God alone. He is the one I answer to. He is the one who calls me to tend to his sheep. I want my life to be continuous series of steps that draw me closer to Jesus…that is all I need.