So right at the beginning of his ministry, Jesus goes and lets the cat out the bag that this message is for the foreigner because the home crowd isn't ready to hear it. that's certainly a good way to get people on your side. As my granny always said: where angels feared to tread...
But then that's a prophet for you. Mind you I think it is probably easier to be a prophetic voice than the ears that have to listen to the prophet, especially if their hearing one you've known all your life. That's where the grace and passion have to come too. And there needs to be a bit more from the hearer than from the prophet and sometimes we just don't have it.
Imagine saying that the ancient words he quoted, and the traditions he was part of were never going to get very far among those who shaped and loved him. Blimey! But imagine also saying that what used to belong here has now moved beyond the borders to those you consider enemies. That's a double whammy!
This Kingdom of God lark is turning out to be quite tough.
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