Jesus Is the Boss!

Scripture – Mark 6:1-6: 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. Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village.

Reflection: This is about the only place (or situation) where we read about something Jesus could not do. Clearly, the limitations on His power are linked to the low regard of the people in His hometown. People there had watched Him grow up. They knew His family. He wasn’t anyone “special” to them.

The miracles so far in Mark have included faith on someone’s part. How do I limit His power today? In some ways, I become so familiar with Him I forget He’s the Lord. He becomes more like a partner – a collaborator on different projects. Yet He is not a partner. He’s the boss! He’s the one in charge. His power comes into play when I trust Him and submit to Him.

Lord, I’m sorry for watering down this relationship we have. I often take your words as advice, when in fact they are commands. Teach me again to pay attention, to listen and to obey. In that, I will see your miraculous power at work today.