Jesus is rejected at Nazareth: Mark 6:1-6

Imaginative Contemplation

Jesus returned to Nazareth. What was he expecting?

How did his townspeople greet him? Why was that?

Often what we expect is what we get. The ‘important’ people of Nazareth did not believe that Jesus could work miracles. Because of their lack of faith, Jesus did not perform public miracles, but only cured a few people who were ill and presumably had faith in his power to do good.

Often what we expect is what we get.

‘Two men looked through prison bars:

One saw mud, the other, stars.’

 

Enter into the scene

I was excited to hear that Jesus had returned home and was teaching in the Synagogue. He had always treated me with respect, despite the fact that many people dismissed me as of no worth. I had always felt at home with Jesus.

His teaching was marvellous. Instead of being power-dominated, he spoke of a kingdom of real down-to-earth love, the love that respects people, companions and values them. My heart leapt within me as I listened to him.

But there were rumblings and mumblings! The ‘important people’ saw in Jesus a challenge to their status. ‘Who is this upstart? He is only a carpenter, after all. No schooling, no social standing! He can say what he likes, but we won’t be fooled. We know who he is.’ ‘What sort of wisdom does he proclaim? Not ours, to be sure! And what is this about miracles? Seeing is believing, and we haven’t seen any miracles worked here!’

My heart sank. These people will never accept him.

I caught up with Jesus outside the Synagogue. ‘Oh, Jesus, I was so excited when I heard you were coming home. But our neighbours are treating you as they treat me. I’m so sorry!’

Jesus looked sad and sighed. ‘Without faith, these people can never accept God’s work among them. For miracles to occur, there must be faith, and that is lacking among the people here. I will be leaving Nazareth. It is no longer home for me.’

We said Goodbye. I went back into my home, and Jesus went out of the town.

For further reflection

Discuss with Jesus the following points:

  • Do I allow people to change, to grow up, to recognise change?

  • Am I jealous of the talents of others?

  • Do I recognise that God can work through any person, any circumstance?

  • Do I recognise God at work in my life, my work place, my family, my community?

Prayer

Lord, help me to recognize you at work in my daily life. May I use the Examen to explore the movements of my day, to thank for the graces received and to repent of my shortcomings. Amen.