Receptivity (Yr B Proper 9) by Amma Susan
“Where then did this man get all this?” (Mk 6:2b) Everything we get from the Holy Spirit is dependent upon our receptivity. We heard this theme of receptivity, not too long ago, in the parable of the secret life of the seed. The seed is cast, seemingly randomly. It finds its way down into the earth. How it grows – what it will be; is in God’s hands. Receptivity is further exemplified in part two of today’s gospel sequence as Jesus commissions his disciples to go – transformed from ‘mere’ disciples to apostles – sent.
Obviously, if Jesus is incredulous at the reception or more accurately the lack thereof, awaiting him in his hometown, a similar fate potentially awaits his followers. But does this mean STOP! Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200? In the game of monopoly, the object is to win at all costs.
If that were the Divine playbook, wouldn’t God’s prophets be compelled to conquer and divide? Wouldn’t they beat the opposition down? If our God were a win-at-all-costs minded sovereign, a twist-your-arm sort of Lord, wouldn’t God’s prophets wield a mighty word and sword? Unfortunately, some self-designated prophets have. But that’s not what we encounter through Jesus.