Dear Friends:
In our Gospel story today, Jesus has returned to his native Nazareth along with his disciples. When the Sabbath came, he went to teach in the synagogue as he had done all through his journeys in Galilee. Only this time something different happened. The people were surprised at how much he knew. The people asked where he got all his wisdom. How can he do these mighty things? Isn’t he the son of Mary and Joseph, a simple carpenter? Then they get offended, probably because he knew more than they did. Jesus was unable to do any mighty works in his hometown, and so he left to go to a more receptive place.
Sometimes it’s hard for us to be disciples of Jesus, especially when we are talking to our own families, our children, our parents or our friends. Sometimes when we talk about our faith or something new we learned about Jesus, we are made fun of and scoffed at just as Jesus was. Jesus tells us through his ministry not to be afraid. He tells us to have courage and do what we know is right; and that is to spread his Gospel to anyone who will listen. He never said it would be easy, he just said to do it and not be afraid.
Today we celebrate the independence of our country. Please take a moment to thank God for all we have in this country, for those who gave their lives in our defense, and for those who are on the front lines today as we celebrate with picnics and fireworks. Pray for peace in our world, pray for peace in our hearts!
Peace and All Good!
Deacon Jim