He left that place and came to his home town, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, ‘Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?’ (Mark 6: 1-3)

Every small town I have ever known - every authentic community - is founded on the same premise: we will care for you, support you, and love you as long as you conform to our expectations.

The expectations are heavily weighted toward local values, family origins, and "not getting too big for your britches." Eccentricity, especially of the weaker sort, is accepted. But any suggestion of pride is rejected.

Too often what we call love is only comforting conformance. True love will empower and transform. God's love encourages exploration and usually results in the unexpected. Do not fear, only believe.