Crazy

Jesus came with his disciples into the house. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” (Mark 3:20-21)

Quite the short reading! Was Jesus “out of his mind?”  The expression “out of his mind” can mean “crazy.” Was Jesus crazy?  Probably because one would have to be crazy to believe people can love one another, even enemies.  He was crazy because he put a premium on forgiveness, even forgiveness for those who have done unspeakable things to us or those we love.  He was crazy in many ways. 

Actually, Jesus was crazy like a fox.  According to English Language & Usage, this expression means someone’s behavior appears insane or nonsensical at first glance, but there is really something very clever and subtle to it that is working toward their interest in unexpected ways.  There is some ulterior motive to that behavior.  That describes Jesus pretty well.

Are we crazy? That all depends on our motives.  Are we crazy about Jesus?  Are we crazy in love with someone, like Patsy Cline, for example?  Are we out of our minds because we believe love is stronger than hate?  Let’s hope this is the craze in 2021.  

Deacon David Pierce