Luke 4:23-30
In this passage, St. Luke reminds us of something important; an important truth that can be difficult to accept. This truth is that often, the greatest truths are the ones that we are most unwilling or opposed to hearing; most especially when they question or challenge our preconceived thinking and beliefs. In this lesson, Jesus tells the people of Nazareth that a prophet is never accepted in his own native residence. Jesus then goes on to explain this point by naming examples from the lives of Elijah and Elisha.
These prophets were sent by God to help and comfort the people of Israel; however, God sent Elijah and Elisha beyond the Israelite’s boundaries. Elijah was sent to a widow in Zarephath, a foreign land, rather than to one of the many widows who were in Israel. Elisha cleansed Naaman, a Syrian, of his leprosy, instead of healing one of the many lepers in Israel. Luke explains Jesus’ message did not sit well with the people of Nazareth, who were filled with wrath, anger and rage at Jesus’ words.
Why did the people of Nazareth respond in this way? Well, it might have been because they felt a sense of entitlement and privilege. These people believed that, as the people of Israel, they were the ones who deserved God’s blessings and special treatment. They could not accept that God’s mercy and grace just might extend beyond their own territory.
Jesus could do no more for his hometown because they were limiting themselves. How much might God be able to do with us if we were ready to go beyond the borderlines of community and limits of love and charity that we ourselves have created? How often do we step right into a snare of thinking that we are the only ones deserving of God’s love and blessings, or that our own beliefs and thoughts are the only correct or acceptable ones? It can be hard to accept that the truth might rest beyond our own limited understanding of the world. But on the other hand, it is only by opening ourselves up to God’s opportunities can we truly grow and learn.
As we continue along on our Lenten journey, let us reflect and contemplate on the ways in which we might be holding ourselves back with our preconceived ideas and biases. Let us ask for the thanks and grace and mercy to be open to new truths and realities; to see the world through the eyes of God, rather than through our own reserved and limited perspectives. May we learn to embrace the message of the prophets, no matter where they come from, and may we be willing to accept the challenges and opportunities that come with being true followers of Jesus Christ.
Let us pray. Loving and gracious God, help us to be open to the truth, no matter where it comes from. Give us the courage to let go of our own biases and preconceptions, and to see the world through your eyes. May we learn to welcome and embrace the message of your prophets, and to follow in the footsteps of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Meditation by the Very Reverend Andrew Hanyzewski
Rector, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Mount Holly
Diocese of New Jersey