MENTORING MOMENTS – HOMETOWN WOES

THURSDAY, MARCH 3RD
A TIME OF SHARED STRUGGLES

Today we come to our mentor as he shares one of his trying times with us. Jesus invites us to listen and learn that we are not alone in our daily challenges, struggles, and frustrations. He has endured such difficulties (and worse) himself, and he will help us with ours.

Jesus begins…

I left that place and came to my hometown, and my disciples followed me. On the sabbath I began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard me were astounded. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at me. Then I said to them, “Prophets are not without honor, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house.” And I could do no deed of power there, except that I laid my hands on a few sick people and cured them. And I was amazed at their unbelief. (Mark 6:1-6, NRSV, revised*)

Sit for a few minutes to abide with Jesus. How do his words touch your soul today? Can you relate to his struggle? Have you ever felt discounted or discredited? Have others made false assumptions about you based on your past, or your culture, or your social status, or your appearance? Does it help you to know that Jesus fully understands your hurt or frustration?

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Reflection:

Jesus’s story may have reminded us of painful times when our abilities have been doubted, our actions were criticized, or our intentions were questioned. I recall when, as a young adult, I was training to become a customer service representative. My dear cousin died suddenly one night, and my grief was immense. This must have reflected in my work, because the next week my supervisor pulled me aside to share her skepticism about my ability and her concern about my attitude. She then suggested that I resign. Fortunately, I found the courage to tell her that I wanted to stay, and I ended up being a competent and caring service representative for seven more years. What she had observed and judged was not my normal, capable self.

Jesus understands our sadness and frustration when others do not see our gifts or our potential. He has experienced the ways people can make mistaken assumptions about us. Jesus knows that others will not know our whole story, will not see our inner spirit, will not trust our ability.

But he does.

Jesus knows what is going on beneath the surface of our appearance. Jesus is saying, I can use you. I need you. Your past does not determine your present. Your present does not determine your future. You are of great worth, and I want you to come along with me today. We have work to do – together.

Photo by Jen Theodore on Unsplash
Bible verses found at https://www.biblegateway.com/

*The name of Jesus and his pronouns have been adapted by Karen into first-person.