Home Town Hero???

This Sunday we continue our march through the Gospel of Luke. Things really start to head south for Jesus. After beginning his public ministry in Capernum, he returns to his hometown of Nazareth. What are the first images that come to mind when you think of your home town? Do you find a similar description in Luke's depiction of Jesus' experiences in Nazareth from Chapter 4?

In verse 24, Jesus tells us that "Truly, no prophet is accepted in the prophet's hometown." What is a prophet? Can you name any Biblical and/or modern examples? What do those figures hold in common?

The last line of this passage cracks me up! It's a typical gloss, or understatement, that has been lost in translation, "But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way." Let's get real - the people were getting ready to throw him over a CLIFF. My logical brain tells me that running away from the crowd wasn't an option! So...you tell me - how did Jesus get away?

Gospel for Sunday, January 31, 2010: Luke 4:21-30

²¹Then he began to say to them, ‘Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’ ²²All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth. They said, ‘Is not this Joseph’s son?’ ²³He said to them, ‘Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, “Doctor, cure yourself!” And you will say, “Do here also in your home town the things that we have heard you did at Capernaum.” ’ ²⁴And he said, ‘Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet’s home town. ²⁵But the truth is, there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up for three years and six months, and there was a severe famine over all the land; ²⁶yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. ²⁷There were also many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.’ ²⁸When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage. ²⁹They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. ³⁰But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way.

Welcome!

Welcome to "The Well!" This blog is an effort to reach out to the youth of St. David's and anyone beyond who might be interested in a little mid-week "soul food". The title is based on the idea that we need to return to the source as often as possible to stay amply hydrated. There is an Asian proverb that reminds us that once you realize you are thirsty, it's too late to begin digging a well. In that same spirit, as Christians we strive to be constantly engaged in the work of deep-well digging. In this case, I'm making a bold assumption that turning our thoughts to God will provide spiritual nourishment. The blog is intended to merely be a catalyst for further conversations, thoughts, prayers, and readings.

Postings may be based on the lectionary (assigned) texts for the upcoming Sunday. Other weeks, it may simply be a commentary on current events or other relevant topics. Please visit often and comment frequently. In addition, if there's a topic that you'd like to see covered - please feel free to make those requests!

Be well.