Gospel

Matthew 13:54-58

Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue.

They were astonished and said,

“Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?

Is he not the carpenter’s son?

Is not his mother named Mary

and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?

Are not his sisters all with us?

Where did this man get all this?”

And they took offense at him.

But Jesus said to them,

“A prophet is not without honor except in his native place

and in his own house.”

And he did not work many mighty deeds there

because of their lack of faith.

Reflection

In some ways, the kingdom of God is too simple, too natural, too within our own reach. It's not about becoming some spectacular miracle worker or somebody who walks around and heals everyone around them. No, it's about human beings living out their own destiny, becoming authentically who they are. And in that process, aligning their wills to God and doing the most natural thing.

Care for people. Nurture people. Tend to their needs. Shepherd them. It is a beautiful image of something that is within our ability to accomplish.

Closing Prayer

Father, help us to understand the naturalness of your work within us. Give us the hope that comes from knowing that we are moving everyone that we love and know into a deeper understanding of who you are. When we simply will it and want it and desire it. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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