Scripture Reading: Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Reflection: ‘Be harmless as a dove’ is the third and final echoing words of Jesus as he sent his disciples out into the world. The dove lacks the capacity to harm and to come under reproach. Indeed unlike other birds it has no talons or horns to harm. The exemplary character and attitude devoid of causing harm and deception to fellow men is therefore what Jesus expected his disciples to exhibit. This will ensure a receptive and supportive environment for their survival. Where is the nature of the harmlessness of the dove that the heavens expects of us? Fraudsters are on the rise merchandising the gospel and the annointing, and causing harm to innocent people. It is time to pray against these ‘wolves in sheep skin’. It is also time to pray to put on the nature of the dove. The words of Apostle Paul in Philippians 2:15-16 sums it up all-‘That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world’!