They took offense at him

Jesus’ townsmen in Nazareth ought to be proud of him and to feel honored by his presence. Instead, they oppose and belittle him. They think they know him too well to pass a fair judgment on him. They think that Jesus’ humble origins do not qualify him for the fame and acclaim he is now enjoying.

They are convinced that someone of their kind has no capacity to transcend his milieu and rise above mediocrity. Life without faith in a preacher they presume to be familiar with is comfortable and easy. Then they go along with the status quo and their complacent ways, unmindful of the deep joy and authentic liberation that faith in Jesus brings.

GOSPEL • MATTHEW 13:54-58

Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?

Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.

SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord 2021,” ST. PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; Fax 632-895-7328; E-mail: publishing@stpauls.ph; Website: http://www. stpauls.ph.