And they took offence at him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their home town, and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. (Mark 6: 4-6)

Especially in the context of Mark's gospel it is startling to read, "And he could do no deed of power there..." Mark's action hero has encountered his kryptonite.

Jesus is a bridge between us and God's love. If we fail to see the bridge, refuse to use the bridge, or insist it does not exist we will not get across.

Luke's longer account of this hometown encounter (Luke 4: 14-30) helps us better understand the offense felt in Nazareth.

According to Luke, Jesus was at first proudly and well-received in his home synagogue. But then Jesus challenged his old friends by suggesting his mission - and God's love - did not give special place to those listening. Jesus was being critical of those who believed they owned the bridge.

Mark helps us understand that God's abilty to work with us depends on our faith and cooperation. Jesus invites, he does not insist.

Luke helps us understand that even in faith our expectations can complicate God's ability to work with us. When we insist on our righteousness and cast aspersions on the worthiness of others we have lost our way to the bridge.

Above is Free Bridge to Ciudad Juarez by Robin Ora Hood.