Today's episode is shocking for the level of hatred and violence stirred up by Jesus' words. In a tranquil provincial synagogue, at a usual sabbath service, ordinary people are so enraged that they try to lynch a member of their own congregation who has grown up in their midst. What could occasion such an astonishing turn of events. Jesus has just proclaimed a year of Jubilee and the fulfillment of Gods promises. Surely that is Good News! Yet, the people are scandalized that it should be one of their own, the son of a carpenter, who is speaking to them. Even worse he speaks of God being there for gentiles as well as Jews. As nationalist Jews the congregation's sense of exclusivity and entitlement is being challenged radically. Thus, snobbery, exclusiveness and power bring them to homicidal anger. This brings to fulfillment the prophecy given by Simeon at the Presentation in the Temple: "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed...." (Luke 2: 34) Jesus later tells his disciples that they, too, will be opposed: "If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you" (John 15: 18) In fact, it is problematic when Christians are lauded by the world: "Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets." (Luke 6: 26) Since this is the case, as Catholics we should not be surprised when the media, politicians or celebrities mock, deride or attack us for our faith. This is a sign that we are following in the footsteps of our Master. After all we are called to be heirs to the blessings of God: "Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of calumny against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Mtt 5: 11)
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