Honor or Distain?

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PODCAST

March 22nd, 2012

During my years as a missionary, when I arrived in my assigned country, I would calculate how long it would be before I returned home. I’d begin counting backward from years, then months, then days until departure. I looked forward to going home.

When Jesus headed home to Nazareth, he was now a rabbi with his own disciples. Do you think he was excited about seeing family and friends? As was his usual custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath. Jesus was astounded at the people’s response to his words when they asked, “What’s this wisdom that has been given him, that he does even miracles!” (v. 2b).

Instead of honoring Jesus, they were offended by his words. They judged him because of his working class family. Jesus found himself without honor in Nazareth.

Will we welcome Jesus home in our hearts? Will we decide in faith to follow him, or will we dishonor him by refusing his offer of love and forgiveness? The choice is ours.