Feb
27 |
“Just Jesus”
Cindie Jenkins |
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Mark 6:1-5-- 1Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that he even does miracles! 3Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him. 4Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6And he was amazed at their lack of faith. |
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The people in the synagogue were amazed at Jesus’ wisdom until they recognized him as the boy who grew up in their town. Then they said, “Oh, that’s just Jesus.” When they recognized him as one of their own, Jesus’ message was trivialized or discounted.
It is true that we characterize people from our own experiences with them or others’ expectations and opinions of them. It astounds me that the image perceived of people by t heir peers can begin as early as elementary school and follow them throughout high school if they stay with the same group of people. Later, if we hear of someone’s unexpected success, we are surprised. I bet the people who called Bill Gates a geek wish they had been nicer to him now. It’s true that we should be realistic in determining our God given gifts and how we should use them, but we should rely on God to guide us, not the opinions or perceptions of those around us. Jesus moved on to those who would hear his message and have faith. Do I allow others to define who I am or do I allow God to do that? Do I try to define others or do I allow God to do that?
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Faith |
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Today, Christians can say, “Oh, that’s just Jesus.” When asked these questions: Who can wash away my sins? Who loves me unconditionally? Who is the only one who can give me eternal life? We respond, “Oh, that ‘s just Jesus.” Now, with a whole new meaning. |
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Experience |
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Father God, help me to love others unconditionally and know you can work through anyone who calls on you and anyone you call upon. Thank you for Jesus and his example. Amen |
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