Jesus quoted from what was, apparently, a common saying of the time: “We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.” That reminds us that no matter what you do you’re going to get criticized. Hence, you can’t let criticism guide your actions. The criterion Jesus used instead as a guide were the outcomes: “wisdom is vindicated by her works.” Or as He said in another place, “By their fruits you will know them” (Matt 7:16). If you want to know who to admire or who to imitate look for the works, the fruits. Are the poor being cared for? Are the hurting being healed? Are the lost being found? Is everyone welcomed?
