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.)
Jesus came to his own town with his disciples. On a sabbath, he entered the synagogue and began to teach. Many listened in admiration, saying, “How did he learn all these things? Where did he get this wisdom? By what power can he do these works?
Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Jude and Simon? Are not his sisters with us?” They found him too much for them.
Jesus said to them, “A prophet is without honor only in his native place, in his own house and among his own relatives.” He could work no miracle there. He only cured a few people by laying hands on them.
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.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)
He could work no miracle there.