PROPHET WITHOUT HONOUR
Jeremiah 26:1–9; Psalm 69; Matthew 13:54–58
Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honour except in his own country and in his own house” (Matt. 13:57). We frequently misconstrue a prophet. We usually assume that a prophet should have stranger behaviour than normal. He should dress in ancient garb, eat just once a week, speak in hushed tones, wear long bears, and have very bushy hair on their heads. Perhaps Jesus did not appear in this manner, and his people relegated him.
In the first reading, Jeremiah preached repentance else destruction, as he was commanded. In response, the people rebelled against him. In the same vein, Jesus was rejected by his own people in the gospel reading. Hence, he did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief. We can’t benefit from the grace we reject.
Let us pray.
Lord God, you hold out the light of your word to those who do not know you. Strengthen in our hearts the faith you have given us, so that no trials may quench the fire your Spirit has kindled within us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
