I love the house where you live, O LORD, the place where your glory dwells.

How I love to do your will, my God! I keep your teaching in my heart."

But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so for now. For in this way we shall do all that God requires." So John agreed.

But when the right time finally came, God sent his own Son. He came as the son of a human mother and lived under the Jewish Law,

So Jesus did not travel openly in Judea, but left and went to a place near the desert, to a town named Ephraim, where he stayed with the disciples.

He will not shout or raise his voice or make loud speeches in the streets.

He will not break off a bent reed nor put out a flickering lamp. He will bring lasting justice to all.

And so, keeping quiet in such evil times is the smart thing to do!

"Listen! I am sending you out just like sheep to a pack of wolves. You must be as cautious as snakes and as gentle as doves.