At the beginning of the gospel story for today, Jesus is teaching at the synagogue in his hometown. The people there are astounded by Jesus’ wisdom and deeds of power Jesus has performed elsewhere. However, the amazement of the villagers is shaded with hostile and offended feelings. It seems that because because of their close connection to Jesus, the villagers view him as a bit of an upstart.

Why? Well that tends to be the way of life when someone we have known “forever” suddenly seems to take on a new and, perhaps, elevated status in our midst. We ask each other “what would he (or she) know? Wasn’t it only a little while He (she) was skipping stones down by the beach?”  “Little upstart! How dare she (he) tell us how to live our lives?”

It is often assumed that Mary was by this point a widow and, even though Jesus had many brothers who could help care for her, as the eldest son it was probably regarded unfavourably for him to leave her in order to pursue ministry. In addition, while as a skilled carpenter Jesus was most likely not a member of the impoverished labouring classes, his status was still lower than that of the educated classes. Thus, behaviours such as teaching at a synagogue could have been viewed as an attempt to elevate his own position above his fellow villagers. Because of the attitude of those in his hometown, Jesus is unable to do much here. Moreover, just as these villagers are amazed and offended at Jesus, he is amazed at their unbelief and leaves in search of welcoming areas.

After Jesus experiences rejection in his ministry, he decides to send out some of his disciples in pairs, to continue his ministry in the region. The instructions he gives them, however, challenge them to trust in God’s provisions during their journey. They are to take nothing beyond what they are immediately wearing – not even an extra tunic which would keep them warm in case they were left without lodgings for the night. In short, the disciples are left dependent on the hospitality of those they seek to serve.

Jesus leaves his disciples open to the same rejection he has experienced, as he sends them out without him.  The scripture readings this week remind us that when God calls and sends, God’s powerful and loving presence will empower and sustain. Our call is to continue to follow God’s lead, trusting that God is continuing to work in and through our weaknesses and human limitations to create a more loving and peaceful world.

In what areas are you suffering from discouragement and how is God asking for you to respond?

Many Blessings

Reverend Shan