Trip to Nazareth Pt.2

“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. Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.” (Mark 1:3-6)

In the story of Jesus’ life, there’s a moment in Nazareth that feels surprisingly relatable. Jesus, performing miracles and speaking with wisdom, is met with skepticism from his own neighbors. “Isn’t this the carpenter? Mary’s son?” they ask. And just like that, doubt takes root.

This reaction reveals a profound truth about assumptions. When we reduce someone to what we think we know about them, we shut ourselves off from seeing their potential—and the gifts they might bring. Nazareth, clinging to its reputation of "nothing good" ever coming from there, dismissed Jesus. They couldn’t reconcile the boy they knew with the man performing miracles in front of them. Their limited self-image kept them from experiencing the fullness of what he had to offer.

Sound familiar? Sometimes, we do the same to ourselves. We question the ways God works through us because we view ourselves through the lens of doubt or insecurity. This is why the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" is so powerful. You can only love others—or recognize the divine in them—as much as you value yourself.

Jesus understood this. He wasn’t shaken by Nazareth’s rejection because his identity wasn’t tied to their opinions. Instead, he focused on those who had even a small spark of faith. When his own people turned him away, he surrounded himself with those who were willing to believe, even if they were few.

Mark’s gospel reminds us: "He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them." Even in an atmosphere of doubt, those few moments of faith made healing possible.

So, what about you? How will you handle rejection from those closest to you? How will you navigate the familiar spaces that try to dim your faith?

Take heart in Jesus’ example. He didn’t let doubt stop him. He focused on the few who believed, and that was enough. Stand firm in your faith. Seek out those who share your vision and journey alongside them. Even in the smallest acts of belief, miracles can unfold.