Faith Smothered by Barriers

~~~ Hebrews 12:4-7, 11-15 ~~~ Psalm 103~~~ Mark 6:1-6 ~~~

 

As so typical of we humans, we try to fit God, in this case Jesus,

 into our own trite understanding.

Jesus has returned home after being on the road.

It is always good to be at home with family and friends.

 

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!

 

Jesus was home they knew his humble background and

could not justify this knowledge with his actions.

 

They actually took offense at him....

Were they jealous of who he had become?

Why were they not proud to have such a person

from their local community?

Instead they wanted him to stay small minded just as they were.

 

Jesus addresses their skepticism.

He understands their doubts and only minimally

uses his gifts while at home.

He was amazed at their lack of faith.

 

It is difficult if not impossible to build upon a faith

that is non existent.

It is impossible for a person's faith to increase

when they keep throwing up barriers.

While Jesus must have been disappointed,

he accepted them where they were...

Just as he accepts us where we are,

I might add.

 

 

Strive for peace with everyone,
and for that holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
See to it that no one be deprived of the grace of God,
that no bitter root spring up and cause trouble,
through which many may become defiled.

 

Everyone who has gone before us for some two thousand years

stands before us witnesses of the magnificence of God.

Whatever trials and hardships we encounter along the way

someone before us has gracefully endured.

We must be strengthened and encouraged by this knowledge.

 

Remembering God is always with us

no matter what kind of storm rages around us.

He will create from the storm a rainbow of love and compassion.

Never doubt what God is capable to do for you

or even through you.

Allow God to be at home in your life,

this is where he wants to be...

you and him together.

It does not get any better, my friends.

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
and all my being, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits.

 

Remove the barriers; so your faith can flourish.