And he was amazed at their lack of faith.
--Mark 6:6
The setting for today's reading is Nazareth, the hometown of Christ our Lord. It was the sabbath and he went to the synagogue, as was his custom, and he taught the people there. They were astounded, seemingly, at the content and delivery of the lessons.
Following up on this amazement was curiosity about where all these authoritative lessons -- and the miracles that came by His hand -- came from. They never had a hometown boy like this. Didn't he work at the carpenter shop up the road? His family members are right here in town with us!
There is an unfaithful way to be amazed and curious. This is to be seen here in Nazareth. They, the people, took offense at Jesus, we are told.
Genuine Faith -- which has its astounding and curious aspects! -- doesn't do that. Genuine faith does not take offense at Jesus. Instead, it gladly receives what Jesus says and does. Understanding is important, but it's not all-important. All-important is faith, Jesus-for-sure.
PD
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