Mark 6:1-13

Jesus returns to his hometown and entering the synagogue on the Sabbath, begins teaching.  After hearing him, these people who know him, cannot understand how he has become so wise and knowledgeable. And, because of his inability they reject him.

His own family spurns his teaching.

Jesus is unable to minister among the people of his hometown.  He was "amazed at their unbelief (v. 6)."  Here it is helpful to translate the apistis (unbelief) as "lack of trust."  The folks in Jesus' hometown, amidst their questioning and speculation, do not trust in Jesus' ability to heal and bring wholeness  They do not trust in this new kingdom of God and are unwilling to participate in the ministry of Jesus.

After this rejection, Jesus withdraws with his disciples and shifts his ministry into a new stage, sending out the disciples in pairs, giving them power over "unclean spirits".  In telling them what to do in cases of rejection, he makes the missionaries completely vulnerable to, and dependent upon, the hospitality extended to them, and obviously precludes the from being able to impose their views by force.

One aspect of being a disciple is the ability to receive hospitality.  The disciples (and we) will be vulnerable on the way, and will need the hospitality of others to continue.  Jesus shapes us to be open to receive the hospitality of others.   This can be difficult for us, as disciples in today's context.  We sometimes feel a strong pull to "have to" contribute something - be it for a holiday party, or even an invitation to share a meal.  Following Jesus shapes us in a way that shatters cultural norms and pushes us into a new way of life.

• How do we recognize moments when we may be rejecting the ministry of Jesus in our midst?
• How do we recognize our own "lack of trust" in the journey of discipleship?
• How do we receive the hospitality of others on our journey of faith?

Come to St. Timothy's on Sunday.  Invite someone to come with you.  Together let's lift our hearts and voices in praise and thanksgiving for God's healing transformation.