Mark 6:1-6
Rationalizing and blaming seems to be the mode of operation for Jesus’ audience in today’s gospel. Though they were “astonished” at Jesus’ teaching, they chose to push it away. Maybe it did sting a little, or they would not have been so offended. Jesus was “amazed at their lack of faith” – sometimes those who are close to us can disappoint. Though Jesus repeats ancient wisdom about a prophet’s honor in his own country, perhaps it disappointed him all the more to see his own kin and neighbors dismiss his words.
Jesus did not perform any “mighty deed” there, other than healing a few sick. I imagine those who were healed were grateful for the miracles. Would those miracles soften some hearts? We can hope and pray that such softening can occur, even in the midst of our own generation that actually seems a lot like this audience – skeptical, stubborn, looking for faults to bring others down so that somehow we can lift ourselves up. And we who welcome Jesus can also seek a softening of our own hearts, too, so that we may receive the Word and allow it to bear fruit.
By Edward Morse
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Meditations
* Our Way of Life *
"Our diverse talents and abilities, our differences in culture, nationality and age are assets for the richness of the community. Although we may be engaged in a variety of ministries, we all share the common call to apostolic discipleship in a community of the Catholic Apostolate of St. Vincent Pallotti."(OWL, 91)
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"Christ, the Apostle of the Eternal Father, and his mission are central to our personal and community life, giving meaning and direction to our thinking, our spirituality, our prayer, action and suffering." (OWL, 19)
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"As a community of disciples we are gathered around Jesus, the Apostle of the Eternal Father. Like the first disciples, we want to be with Jesus, be sent out by him and return to him to evaluate our service in the light of his presence." (OWL, 88)
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"As Pallottines, it is our special charism to foster growth in faith and love among the laity, to awaken them to awareness of their apostolic call, and to cooperate with them in furthering the apostolic mission." (OWL, 21)
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"Our relationships with one another should be marked by a love that bears all, believes all and hopes for all, a love that is neither conceited nor jealous, which hurts no one, nor is embittered or resentful. It is never discouraged but remains patient and kind. It rejoices with others and shares their suffering. It is with this kind of love that we should help and support one another." (OWL, 90)