Scripture:
(Jesus) went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue.
…(and) many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands?
Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.
(And) Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” (Mark 6:1-4 ESV)
Observation:
Here is a slice of the real life that Jesus encountered. Not everyone thought He was the best thing since cheap wine at weddings. Those that He grew up with were perhaps the biggest skeptics. Wonder why?
Application:
I have started to cut up the scriptures into segments that resemble conversations and thought separations—like a conversation in a book. Reason why is that I can read the Scriptures and have it all run together—to the effect that I don’t get all the understanding of what is going on? Reading the Scripture passage out loud helps but I have can let it run monotone on me there either. Anyway, that is why I cut up Mark 6:1-4 like I did.
I totally get what is happening here with Jesus. Here I am, fresh, full of the Holy Spirit, enthused…and I get around family and friends that they go “What? I remember you when you [fill in the blank here] at 6 years old and then when you got older you did [fill in the blank here] and was generally a real pain in the {fill in the blank here]. I don’t think you have changed at all…getting all “holy” and all that; Just an act.” The guys in His hometown recognized the Insight, the Wisdom, His Mighty Works…and also added “isn’t Jesus just a carpenter, just Mary’s son, just a brother to these kids?” And because of the preaching, mighty works and just because they knew Him growing up—took offense.
That can happen to me too—and I can feel dis-empowered. My Christianity diminishes; enthusiasm drains; I struggle just to say grace at the table. Remedy? A number of things but most effective: I think and prepare before getting into these situations; Practice the Spiritual Disciplines; Find a brother to walk beside you; Look for opportunities to point out evidences of Grace. And for goodness’ sake I must remember this happened to Jesus as well.
Prayer:
Scripture is for our edification and encouragement—that we might find comfort and hope is what You say, Father. Nothing I go through is special—it is common to man. Father: I confess that I am needy; not only in this particular situation but oh so many others. Help me to act and speak wisely around others, not giving much notice to what is said but to be gentle and persuasive in my speech and responses.