For those with open hearts and hearts ready to receive (Trinity 5, 5 July)

What’s a messiah got to do? I mean, really? Hot on the heels of healing Jairus’ daughter and the woman with the hemorrhage, Jesus has now returned to his hometown, Nazareth. But whereas he was amazed by the great faith of the woman who was healed by touching his robe, here he finds himself astonished at the lack of faith he finds in his own village. Rather than put their trust in him, the people of Nazareth choose to take offence. “Who does he think he is? Isn’t this the carpenter’s son?” If only they had known what they were missing out on.

As Jesus sends the Twelve out on mission, he does so with the first-hand knowledge that their ministry will not always be well received. For those with open hearts and hearts ready to receive, blessing would abound. But for those who were offended by the offer of God’s love, their lack of faith would bear testimony against them.

Think about what, if anything, there is that stops you from seeing who Jesus really is. What helps you take a fresh look? Who or where has God called you to share the Good News? How’s it going? Don’t forget the advice Jesus gave, from our gospel lesson last week:

Do not fear, only believe. (Mark 5:36)

Till next time,
Andrew

Readings

Download this week's pewsheet (pdf)

1st          2 Samuel 1:1–5, 9–10
2nd         2 Corinthians 12:2–10
Gospel   Mark 6:1–13
Psalm     48