Unwelcomed Prophets

Jesus departed from there and came to his native place, accompanied by his disciples. When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 

Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith. (Mark 6:1-6)

Jesus said prophets were honored except in their native places and among their own kin and in their own houses.  Prophets speak for God, so we don’t want to hear bad news and even warnings when to heed those warnings we must change our ways and minds and give up things of value.  The bad vibes of those prophets can rub off on those close to them who are accused and blamed for the prophets’ upsetting news and warnings.  Guilt by association.  This can be especially true with divisive politics and herd-thinking.

If prophets speak for God, then should not we listen?  There’s the rub.  Who are the real prophets?  That’s the critical debate we and are nation have yet to resolve – at our peril.

Today being the 4th of July we're reminded of our country's mighty deeds and the wisdom of our democracy and Constitution.  Unfortunately, too many people take offense at them.  There is such an amazing lack of faith.  Nevertheless, very fortunately, many of us honor our native place and respect and protect that which has made us a great nation.

Deacon David Pierce