In this Sunday's reading from the Gospel, we hear of Jesus' homecoming, his return to Nazareth, to preach and teach about the coming of the Kingdom of God to his own people.  

   What was the response from those who heard Jesus' teaching in the synagogue on that day?  They rejected it.  Instead of believing, they asked: where did he get this wisdom?  How can he do these mighty works?  Isn't this the carpenter whose family we know?  

   The reason for the people's rejection of Jesus is simple.  They are sinners.  Their minds have been twisted; their souls warped; their hearts poisoned.   This is true of the people of Nazareth.  This is true of all people descended from Adam and Eve. 

   Nevertheless, despite our unbelief, Jesus continues to preach and teach: he continues to fulfill the mission of the Christ; he lives, dies and rises and provides for us our forgiveness.