Overly sensitive.
Truth can be uncomfortable. There are things we don’t want to talk about ….. things that we keep private. It is even crude to mention some things, others might be offended. Our sensitivities to truth would make us extremely uncomfortable in this ancient communal restroom. I understand it was also the place for social chit-chat. Well some truths need not be shared.
But God’s truth is meant to be shared no matter how uncomfortable it may be. I have found truth to be terribly uncomfortable. Squirming under the light of truth there were times I hated what I saw in me. But the longer I stayed in its light the more wonderful life became. Truth is the surgeon that removes our heart of stone.
“Therefore let us be diligent to enter that rest, so that no one will fall, through following the same example of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:11-12)
The Word of God is living and active in the process of bringing us to repentance. Have you ever thought about the last words of Simeon’s prophecy as he blessed Mary and the child Jesus? “and your own soul shall a sword pass through …. that the reasonings of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:35) The suffering was so that our hearts would be exposed. Jesus is our light “And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and bare to the eyes of Him whom we have to do.” (Hebrews 4:13) Being uncomfortable only lasts while we resist the giving of a new heart.
There were holes in the ceiling to vent the foul air. There could be a metaphor here.
His Family Table 