When the Truth Hurts

And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." (Luke 4:14–30)

Jesus was at the very beginning of His ministry when Luke provides us with a glimpse into how His message of salvation might be ultimately received. As Jesus stood up to recite the words of the prophet Isaiah, the crowd became fixated on Him. Something was different about the reader this particular Sabbath. The group began to speak highly of Him, and Scripture tells us they even marvelled at His words.

And then, it happens.

Questions from their hearts and mouths begin to form: "Wait a minute, did He just say, 'fulfilment of Scripture'? Don't we know this man's parents? Haven't we watched Him walk through the marketplace with his mom and learn how to be a carpenter with his dad? Wasn't it just a few years ago that we were watching Him attend the regular synagogue teachings like all the other young boys His age? How can this be?"

Jesus wasted no time getting to the heart of the issue; their hearts weren't prepared for this new message—especially from a man who grew up down the street! Jesus delivered one of His more famous statements in response to their sentiment: "Truly I say to you; no prophet is acceptable in his hometown."

He continued in His dialogue by giving two real-life examples, Elijah and Elisha— stories they would have known quite well from their years of Old Testament study. In times of intense disobedience by the Jewish people, Elijah and Elisha were each sent to aid Gentiles (as opposed to the Jews, God's own chosen people). God's mercy was certainly expanded, even when people continually rejected Him.

We are reminded explicitly during the Christmas season to "Let every heart, prepare Him room." However, the exclusivity of the Gospel message requires that we continually work to prepare Him room at Christmastime, during this season of Lent, and in every season of life.

LET US PRAY - Lord, allow us to read your Word with a heart prepared to hear Your perfect truth. Break down barriers of pride and expectation and enable us to obey you in the specific ways you call us to do. In Jesus' name. Amen.