Old Testament: 2 Kings 5:1–15b
Gospel: Luke 4:23–30
Psalm 42:1–7
Filled with rage. Oh, how I can identify with the good Jews of Nazareth. They were furious with Jesus for not giving them what they wanted — healing, miracles, a Messiah just for them — which is what they thought they were entitled to. Today’s Gospel opens just after Jesus has preached his first sermon, in his home town. He’s just come in from temptation in the desert and has announced himself to be the fulfillment of the scripture. No doubt there were some pretty high expectations of him, and also some serious doubt about his claim. Jesus immediately sets some boundaries his home folks don’t like, and then removes some barriers that they had always enthusiastically embraced. What? This Messiah’s miracles are not for them, the chosen ones? This salvation includes the Gentiles? That can’t be right!
This Gospel makes clear that when you speak the truth, you risk alienation. In our times, like in Jesus’s time, there are some seriously self-righteous, judgmental people. It sometimes takes courage to be who we are known by God to be. No honor in your own hometown? No worries.
Be brave and steadfast in your convictions. Continue to strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every person. Speak the truth to power. Hear this story as encouragement to put your trust in God, and to live into your baptismal promises, no matter what you think the cost may be.
Melanie Atha
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