Scripture
Everyone spoke well of him and was amazed by the gracious words that came from his lips. “How can this be?” they asked. “Isn't this Joseph's son?”

Observation
At first the people of Nazareth are impressed by Jesus. They marvel at the way the little boy has grown up to be a man of authority.

Jesus, however, hones in on the undercurrents in the thinking of the people. They are wanting miracles. He points out that prophets are nor honoured in their home town.

When he draws parallels between himself and the prophets Elijah and Elisha the crowd is enraged. They drag him to the edge of a cliff, but he passes through the crowd because it is not yet his time to die.

Application
It has been said that Jesus offends the head to reveal the heart.

He will confront our religious sensibilities, our selfishness, our mixed motives and our hidden idols.

How we respond to the confrontation reveals whether Jesus really is Lord or just a convenient crutch.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, I yield every part of my life to you, even the parts that I cherish above all else. Take all of me and let me be wholly dedicated to you. Amen.