The saying: ‘familiarity breeds contempt’ is seen in today’s Gospel proclamation when Jesus returned to his hometown. Jesus’ hometown people must have heard about the miracles that he performed and may have waited to see what this carpenter’s son would pull out of his sleeves. They marvelled at his teaching and wisdom but the moment their focus shifted to who he was, their eager admiration changed to unbelief. Their hearts were hardened like their ancestors in the desert, that Jesus could not do any miracles except a few.

Let us ponder on the times when we accept others based on external factors like clothes, types of cars and houses – instead of seeing them as children of God. How is our faith? Are there times when we trust mere humans instead of waiting on God for his direction and guidance? During trials, temptations and suffering can we echo David’s words, “it is better that I should fall into the hands of the Lord (for his mercies are many) than into the hands of men”?

Abba Father, teach me to surrender the truth of my heart to you. Amen.