The Lord said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you"

This Sunday's Scripture readings speak much of rejection. In the first reading God promises to be with the Prophet Ezekiel as he goes forth to speak to the Israelites, whom God calls "rebels who have rebelled against me." In the Gospel, Jesus comes to his hometown and the people there take offense at him and his work, saying: "Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary?" Their rejection is so strong that Jesus utters his famous phrase, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin." Then we are told, "he was not able to perform any mighty deed there" and "He was amazed at their lack of faith."

While the prophets and Jesus try again and again to show forth God's love and power, even those who did see miracles struggled or refused to have faith. But St. Paul, in the second reading, speaks of God's humbling him, telling Paul "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." This would seem to point to the value of humility; for, even in the midst of rejection, God's grace works and can bring about amazing things! This realization leads to Paul saying, "Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong."

This week, as we go about our business and, hopefully, try to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ into it, we may in fact face rejection or ridicule. While it is tempting to respond with harsh words, sarcasm, or even anger, let us not forget that sometimes the humility that comes from these moments can do us good. It is a reminder that we are in fact weak, that we cannot control others, and that ultimately we rely completely on the strength of God. In our own weakness God is able to be strong and work incredible things, despite our apparent failures. For when we are weak, it is then that God is able to show his strength and amaze us with his goodness and care!

Want to find the readings for this Sunday? Click here to find them.