Things to Ponder
I use this page to share messages of an inspirational nature, or simply something to ponder. It is my hope that you will always be inspired.
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Homily Reflections - Luke 4:21-30 - 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
_______________________________________________________________ Introduction: Rejection is a Reality in MinistryThis Sunday’s Gospel begins with a repetition of the final verse from last week in which Jesus states that he is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” Such a statement would have shocked an ancient audience (and hopefully shocks us as well!). Luke then describes the people’s astonishment at Jesus’ teachings. “They all spoke highly of him and were amazed at his gracious words.” They were so surprised: “Isn’t this the son of Joseph?” In other words, don’t we know this guy? He is one of us. He grew up with us. We know his family.Suddenly, there is an abrupt change of attitude. It is the words that follow his reading from the prophet Isaiah that seem to offend them. “Amen, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place.” Jesus challenges and provokes the people of Nazareth by referring to examples in which Israel rejected the prophets. In other words, by their resistance to him, the townspeople are no better than their forebearers who did not heed earlier prophets (Elijah and Elisha). Therefore, they come under the same judgment. Jesus’ insinuation enrages the people to the point that they want to “hurl him down headlong” from the cliff that overlooks the Esdraelon Plain – a rocky precipice that encircles the southeast section of the town.When have I felt rejected because of my faith? This reaction of the people in Nazareth reflects the schism motif which Luke develops from the beginning of his Gospel. Some speak highly of Jesus, while others are filled with resentment at having one of their own preach to them. Throughout his Gospel (as in the other Gospels), a person is either for Jesus or against him and his values. What precisely encourages you to be “for” Jesus?Furthermore, Jesus reminds the people of stories in the books of Kings in which prophets demonstrate God’s power to foreigners. These stories also provoked the people in Nazareth for God is not only for the Jewish people but for everyone. This is in keeping with Luke’s overall emphasis that Jesus’ mission is a universal one, for Jews and Gentiles alike. Such a message was not well received.Does my faith include everyone? Who might be missing from my attention and care?What word or words caught your attention?What in this passage comforted you?What in this passage challenged you?Did anything astonish you?Further Questions and Reflections:The people of Nazareth were sure they knew Jesus so well as to refuse his message. They even tried to eliminate him. Too threatening. I can also run the risk of presuming I know Jesus and his message so well that I do not let him surprise me. Does Jesus’ message surprise me? Is it a bit threatening to me and my way of life?“This is Joseph’s son, surely?” was probably said with some surprise; expectations were low when Jesus got up to speak. Where did his confidence come from? When low expectations make it easy for me to stay quiet, where might I find my voice?Prophetic voices being rejected by their own was a common phenomenon in the past and continues to be today. Where are the prophetic voices in my life and in our world today? What is their message? Am I inclined to accept or reject it?Prayer: Lord, in what spirit do I receive your daily word? Is it with amazement or with indifference and apathy?The reality of non-acceptance was a consistent reality in Jesus’ life and mission. Do I accept and embrace non-acceptance from others as part of my mission and faith journey?Question: If you were asked to proclaim one piece of Scripture to your community, what would it be?
Deacon David
Deacon David Suley
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Rockville, Maryland
Posted with permission
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