It would seem that everyone would want to identify with the gospel passage today, but not so much the first reading. The first reading talks of a disciplined approach to living out one's faith. Not many like the word "discipline." But without the discipline, without the training, without the correction, without the guidance not much real progress would ever be made. The Lord disciplines those he loves because he has work for them to do – that is not easy – but which is very doable – because he himself will help with the work!
The gospel passage tells about some of the work – some of the work that Jesus did – of preaching, teaching and curing the sick. But he seemed to have least success with those in his own hometown, those who knew him best from his youth! Jesus relates how difficult it is to do the real work of faith with people who cannot see beyond their own prejudices. This is where we can identify. Sometimes we too feel like our work is accepted by others, but not by those closest to us!
This ought not deter us from the disciple of doing the work! For we are answerable only to God for whether or not we did what we were assigned!
Lord, give us strength and courage in our day – no matter who ends up in our path! We have something positive to share with everyone: if only a smile and a friendly nod!
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me!
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