In today's Gospel reading from Matthew 13, Jesus goes back to Nazareth (his native place) and teaches in the synagogue. It didn't go so well.
The people started questioning because they knew Him. He grew up there. They knew his family. They said, "Where did this man get all this?" Then we read, "And they took offense at him."
I'm sure you're familiar with the old saying, "Familiarity breeds contempt." This appears to be a textbook case of that. Perhaps they were offended that one of their contemporaries had the gall to teach them. As if He was "smarter" than they. Or perhaps they were offended at Jesus' message. You know - repent, change your lives, open your eyes. Let's be honest; the Gospel of Christ is going to offend some (many, most?) people. It was offensive when it came from the mouth of Jesus and the Apostles, and it is still offensive today. But just because it offends someone doesn't mean it's not true. In fact, it is life-saving. The world today says the greatest sin is to offend someone. But, Jesus offended some folks. And, if we're doing it right, so shall we.
Father, give us the grace and the courage to share the gospel message, even if it offends some. May we always speak the truth in love. Amen.
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This is the best analogy I’ve heard about the Lord’s mission and rings to true today!