Mark 6:3 “‘Isn’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.” (NIV)*

Their hearts couldn’t get around His growing up years. He was Mary and Joseph’s son, one of several children.

He seemed to be always with his father, learning the family business. Jesus would grow up to be a carpenter, just like His dad. His handiwork was in their homes. Sanding wood grain smooth, perfecting lines, and carving intricacies were his skills. How could a craftsman teach with such wisdom and who does he think he is, God?

It was a leap of faith to believe their neighbor’s son could perform miracles. They couldn’t let him rise out of the box, from the way he’d always been. Common sense told them it couldn’t be. And they took offense. How dare He act as if He’s someone special.

It takes perseverance to move forward and fulfill God’s purposes, despite lack of  support. It takes dogged determination to not be defined by the past. To be redefined.

In God’s kingdom, the process of redefining is ongoing. We’ll never arrive as long as we walk this side of heaven.

Not everyone will understand faith that motivates. Not everyone will be supportive of a calling that captivates. Maybe what they saw yesterday keeps them from believing today. Even Jesus wasn’t understood by everyone. Sometimes, that’s just the way it is.

Mark 6:6 “And He was amazed at their lack of faith…” (NIV)*

*The One Year Bible, New International Version, copyright 1986, Tyndale House Publishing, Wheaton, Illinois.

photo by Patty Perkins