God’s Word: Sweet and Sour

In today’s first reading from the Book of Revelation, St. John writes, “I took the small scroll from the angel’s hand and swallowed it. In my mouth it was like sweet honey, but when I had eaten it, my stomach turned sour.” (Rev 10:10) How often does this reflect our acceptance of God’s words to us? God’s Word seems sweet when we hear commands and readings that support what we think and do. However, it becomes sour when we are commanded to go beyond our comfort level or give up something we might hold dear.

God’s Word is always sweet, but it seems sour at times because of our pride. Instead of a willingness to follow God’s will without reservation, we stubbornly hold on to our prideful wills. Just like milk souring when mixed with lemon juice, God’s will seems sour when mixed with our own. So the next time God’s Word seems sour, you’re probably allowing your pride to sour it.