Dear Sisters and Brothers,
When Jesus returned to his own hometown he faced a severe testing. When he left he was known as the carpenter’s son. Now he is returning as a rabbi with his disciples. It would have been customary for Jesus to go to the synagogue on a Sabbath, and when his turn came, to read from the scriptures during the Sabbath service. His hometown folks listened with rapt attention on this occasion because they had heard about the miracles he performed in other towns. What sign would he do in his own hometown?
When Jesus opened his sermon with the words that “today scriptures have been fulfilled in their hearing”, the people took offense. All they could remember are his modest background – son of a carpenter and Mary’s son, which even carried innuendos of shame and scandal in the family, because the custom is to have called him “Joseph’s son”. Jesus startled them further with a seeming rebuke that no prophet or servant of God can receive honor among his own people.
The people took offense and refused to listen to his words. They despised him because he was a workingman, a mere layman, and they further despised him because of his family. How familiarity can breed contempt! Jesus could do no miracles because they were closed and disbelieving. If people have come together to hate and refuse to understand, then they will see no other point of view except their own and they will refuse to love and accept others.
Many times we too are guilty of downplaying the gifts of those closest to us and dismissing their accomplishments. May we learn from today’s gospel how to value our own family members and be the first to support and encourage them in their struggles.
Sincerely in Christ Jesus,
Father Nick
webupdates@st-matthias.net
St. Matthias the Apostle
