By Shane Kastler
When Jesus returned to Nazareth, the town where he was raised, the people were somewhat surprised at him. The Bible says, “All were speaking well of Him, and wondering at the gracious words which were falling from His lips.” (Luke 4:22) While you might think they were proud of a hometown boy who had made a name for himself; or that they benefitted from his teaching; the fact is neither of these statements were true. What they really wanted from Jesus was something that he would not grant them.
In the synagogue at Nazareth, Jesus said, “No doubt you will quote this proverb to Me, ‘Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we heard was done at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well.’” (Luke 4:23)Since Jesus had done many miracles in the nearby town of Capernaum, the Nazarenes assumed he would do the same there. In reality, they did more than “assume” this, they “expected” this. One might even say, they felt entitled to it. At first glance, their reasoning might seem valid. Since Jesus was willing to bless the rival city of Capernaum, he would surely feel compelled to bless his hometown even more. But what Jesus did instead, was to “burst their bubble” and bring them down to size. He proceeded to remind them of two Old Testament accounts involving the prophets Elijah and Elisha. While there were “many” widows in need in the days of Elijah; the prophet was sent to help only one. Likewise, there were many “lepers” in the days of Elisha; but the prophet was only sent to help one. Jesus's point was unmistakable and the Nazarene response was dramatic.
Jesus would not be meeting every need that existed. In fact, he owed the Nazarenes absolutely nothing. This is true for us as well. As sinners before God, we have no leg to stand on when making demands of him. While we should certainly bring our prayers and petitions before him; we should do so in an attitude of humility, seeking his mercy. Not an attitude of entitlement, seeking our due. We are sinners by nature and sinners by choice, and as such God owes us nothing. Every good thing we receive from him is a gift of grace. As our creator, he can do with us as he pleases. And we should be grateful that he has been as merciful as he has to us.
The Nazarenes response to Jesus's words in their synagogue was that they got so mad they tried to kill him. They tried to throw him off a cliff that the city was built on; but he eluded their grasp. (Luke 4:28-30) What is your response to Jesus? Will you reject him in anger because he won't be your maid? Or will you submit to him in worship, pleading with him to be your savior? Both options lead to somewhere eternal. But only one option leads to Heaven.
If you're riding a high horse, thinking the Lord owes you something, come to your sense and step down a bit. God owes you nothing, but he provides everything, through his son Jesus Christ. Trust in him, and live daily in the grace that only HE can provide.
The church is partially to blame for this. Instead of beginning the Gospel with the wrath of God upon ungodly sinners. It's, come to Jesus. He loves you, can solve all your problems, and has a wonderful plan for your life.
Posted by: Phillip Mezzapelle | June 06, 2020 at 06:14 AM