Often in the gospels the meaning of a passage can be understood in the context of what precedes and/or follows it. The rejection of Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth (Mk 6: 1-6) is followed by the commissioning of the Twelve (Mk 6: 7-13). This is in turn followed by the death of John the Baptist (Mk 6: 14-29). If we take the gospel of Mark as being akin to a handbook for evangelizers, with an emphasis on the Passion of the Lord (approximately one third of the entire text), it strikes me that the Twelve need to be aware that they, like their Master, have to be prepared for rejection and even death. True: "They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them" (Mk 6: 13) yet we have just learnt in the previous verses that despite performing "deeds of power" the people of Nazareth "took offense at him (Jesus)" (Mk 6: 5) Likewise, Herod, knowing John the Baptist to be a "righteous and holy man (Mk 6: 20), ultimately consents to have him beheaded to save his blushes after making extravagant promises. It remains that we are all called to be missionary disciples and spread the joy of the Gospel. Aided by the Holy Spirit we can see the power of God in our own lives and those who are open to the Good News. Nevertheless, we need to be prepared for opposition and to know that the path of the disciple is never easy: "For many are called but few are chosen." (Mtt 22: 14)
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