Where Did This Guy Come From?

Sunday July 5, 2009-The 14th Sunday of Ordered Time

The gospel for Sunday continues in the book of Mark. The theme throughout the readings is the power to speak of God. Where does this come from? In Mark's gospel, we hear the people of Jesus' village asking this question. After he speaks in the synagogue, the people ask: They said,

"Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him.

We have all had similar experiences. We consider someone who is talented, or smart or outstanding in some way and marvel that they came out of nowhere. Nothing about their family was distinguished. Maybe nothing about them was particularly noteworthy until suddenly their talents burst forth. The people of Jesus village are telling us that they had no real expectations for Jesus. Considering the family, why would they? They respond to him with anger. Certainly that is a common response when people violate our expectations. He could not perform any miracles there because the people lacked faith. They believed in God, but in a way which did not allow them to see another sign of God.

Ezekiel, in the first reading, reminds us of the power of God's call. People may wonder where each of gets the authority to speak. It may seem like a complete mystery. We might be tempted to ignore someone thinking they are too unlikely to speak of God. And then what do we miss? We must always be open to possibility, that God speaks always and everywhere, and sometimes through the most unimpressive of women and men. There is no guarantee that people will listen: And whether they heed or resist-for they are a rebellious house-they shall know that a prophet has been among them.

I look forward to seeing you again on Sunday and celebrating the faith that we share.

Philip -- Your waiter at the eucharistic table