Daily Reflection March 4, 2024 |
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Our readings today offer two very different positions about faith and being faithful. A juxtaposition with a “non-believer” taking a leap of faith and the believers being redescent about faithful action. As I read the first reading, my initial reaction was “interesting story, but why so significant?” Then I read the gospel and the profound difference in behavior and action. Fast forward to Nazareth, the “hometown” of Jesus and his earthly family. Here were the Jewish “believers” yet they displayed more scorn than faith in the words of Jesus. No matter what Jesus demonstrated in His knowledge of scriptures and their meanings, His neighbors rejected not only His words but also HIM!! The familiarity provided a barrier not an opening. Instead of “wow, Mary and Joseph’s son really knows His scripture.” It was rejection of His message and an indignation that this “carpenter’s son” would talk that way to them. Jesus’s words have been repeated in so many modern situations:
His words reflect disturbing truth that is experienced in many lives. Many are more willing to listen to strangers than family, friends, or neighbors. So many times, we believe that statements from others who are less known to us are superior to anything said by those well-known to us. How can those familiar have valuable ideas to share? Of course, this is not the case 100% of the time but unfortunately probably more times than is helpful. I’m reminded of the scene with Thomas after the Resurrection.
We are, indeed, blessed. I have often wondered how those so close to Jesus kept doubting what now seems so oblivious. The blind, see; the lame, walk; the dead, rise! And yet doubts existed in many of those who stood and watched these miracles happen. We are blessed that there were those who DID believe and recorded these wonders and miracles! We are blessed to believe without actual seeing! We are blessed that we have a Savior who gave His life to save us! We are blessed to be rescued! Rescue Lauren Daigle |
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