Prayer:
O Jesus, I honor you as the true prophet who has come into the world.
Imagination:
Picture Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth.
Context:
Jesus returns to Nazareth, accompanied by his disciples. After his teaching, the crowd asks itself three questions which summarize Mark’s gospel. Jesus has shown authority, wisdom and healing powers. However, the whole atmosphere of the synagogue is disbelief. The result is a foregone conclusion. Jesus can heal only a few who have faith.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- In his return to Nazareth, Jesus has much greater stature. He enjoys a reputation and has a large group of disciples.
- He acts at Nazareth exactly as he did in the other towns. He teaches about the power of God.
- The reaction here is different. There is no awe or wonder or pressing in to touch his garment.
- Jesus confronts this response. Hometown people often refuse to believe the greatness of someone they know so well.
- Jesus is deeply disappointed. He cannot help the very people he grew up with.
- Nazareth loses its blessings. They are deprived of divine miracles. Even more important, they have no faith in Jesus, their native son.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, you are known to the whole world. Your believers live in every country. This is a great sign to me.
- You offer your powers to everyone. You will bless all who believe.
- Jesus, you want to bless me. Your only disappointment is when I do not believe.
- Fill me with awe and wonder. Let me press in like the believing woman.
- How many blessings will come from you today! Let me gather them up. Every one is important.
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
+ I will see every event this day in the light of faith.
+ I will ask for blessings all day long.