Jesus said to his Apostles: “Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves."
Gospel's Commentary
Today the Lord tells us in advance that the path of the apostle is not a “bed of roses.” The apostle’s example and words awaken consciences. But the “comfortable” and the “shameless” person (who criticizes religion while living by “cheating”) often pushes back. Simple souls listen and are grateful; others, however, react against the apostle.
—If Jesus suffered this, will it not happen to us as well? Therefore, let us be prudent so as not to start fires (avoiding arguments); simple so as to put out fires (with joy that disarms). In any case, “do not worry,” because Jesus is not far away.