God isn't afraid of our doubts, but He doesn't want to leave them with us either."

It is so hard to believe because it is so hard to obey. --Soren Kierkegaard (Danish philosopher, theologian, poet)

Gospel Text: (MT 13:54-58)
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue.
They were astonished and said,
“Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?
Is he not the carpenter’s son?
Is not his mother named Mary
and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?
Are not his sisters all with us?
Where did this man get all this?”
And they took offense at him.
But Jesus said to them,
“A prophet is not without honor except in his native place
and in his own house.”
And he did not work many mighty deeds there
because of their lack of faith.

How often does a word you hear or read, a verse from Scripture, or a line from a hymn stir something in your heart? You understand some aspect of who God is, either for the first time or in a whole new light. And with that understanding, you feel a new touch of God’s love or a gentle conviction of sin or a new motivation to serve. You sense a particular direction for your life or a confirmation that you are on the right path.

But then the wonder of all you have received is dulled by that awful word—but. Ordinary objections, human fear, or practical considerations arise and dominate your mind. The comfort, joy, or sense of purpose that you were enjoying gives way, and you are left wondering if anything really happened at all.

This is how the crowd in Jesus’ hometown reacted in today’s gospel.

We so easily forget - God loves you! He really does. He wants to work in your life. If any thought or emotion rises up that argues otherwise, turn a deaf ear to it! Resist the urge to demand easy explanations or to rely solely on human logic. Instead, tell yourself, “God wants to guide and direct me. He wants to heal and forgive me. He wants me to know him personally.” Believe that God wants to surprise you with his kindness and compassion, and you’ll feel wonder rising up in your heart. And when you do, pause and embrace it.

Collectively, humans are a people of doubt. If one thing goes wrong, if one prayer isn’t answered exactly how we asked for it, then we assume God isn’t listening. We may be disheartened and lose faith, causing us to take measures into our own hands, thinking we can solve our problems better or faster than God can. But slow down and reflect, because we are deceived if we truly believe God isn’t listening.