Don’t judge a book by its cover. This oft-repeated phrase, which came to mind as I spent time with our Gospel reading for today, warns against prejudging someone or something based on first impressions or outward appearances. It seems that the people of Jesus’s hometown might have benefitted from such counsel, if it was adjusted to fit the culture and time – perhaps don’t judge a Torah scroll by its mantle? By this point in his ministry, Jesus had gained a reputation as a gifted teacher and miracle worker, but the townsfolk still thought of him as Joseph and Mary’s kid. Even after being “astonished” upon hearing Jesus teach in their own synagogue, they could not reconcile the person known for “wisdom and mighty deeds” with the person they still thought of as the carpenter’s kid – and “they took offense at him.”
How often do we/I fail to hear when God speaks through someone I already have devalued because of my own preconceptions about what that individual has to offer? Have I already determined not to listen because a person belongs to a profession that is not sufficiently intellectual, or to a person who has not had the right type of academic training? Do I let my dislike for a person’s politics cause me to dismiss everything they have to say, assuming that the Holy Spirit could not possibly speak through them? Am I really arrogant enough to think that the Spirit will only work in the people I have pre-approved because they think the way I think they should, they support the politicians (or sports teams) I favor, or they attend the “right” church?
I am reminded that God’s transformative power can change anyone. It may well be that God will transform someone who has done or said some stupid, hateful things in the past. God can change us/me into people who look beyond the surface to see these individuals as beloved children of God; to see them not as enemies on the other side of a social or political or economic or cultural divide, but as potential brothers and sisters in Christ. Thus transformed, I am more open to the Spirit’s call to serve and love others.
Loving God, open our eyes and ears so that we see and hear you at work in the world. Keep us ever mindful that, as your Son told us, with You all things are possible. Find us faithful and humble, ready to follow the Spirit as we do Your will.
David Crawford
I was Creighton’s University Archivist from January 2007 to April 2021, although as a faculty spouse I had been a part of the Creighton community since 1995. As University Archivist, I was responsible for archival, rare books and special collections, as well as for a Heritage Edition of The Saint John’s Bible on loan to Creighton. I left Creighton to assist others with historical, archival, cultural and various artistic projects.
I have been married to my wife, Sue, since 1990. We have two sons, one a graduate of Fordham and the other a graduate of University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I enjoy birdwatching, playing soccer, music and comedy.
The online Daily Reflections have been an important part of my faith journey for several years. I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to write these devotions.
