Familiarity Breeds Contempt | Morning Routine Daily Devotional for January 5

He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works 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?” And they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” – Mark 6:1–4 ESV

Today, we find Jesus and his disciples returning to Nazareth, Jesus’ hometown. While he was born in Bethlehem, he was raised in Nazareth. Jesus’ ministry began near his hometown, and upon his return, we might anticipate a positive reception. Of course, that is not what happens!

Mark tells us that as Jesus taught in the synagogue, his audience was astonished. They ask, “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? Are not his sisters here with us?” In other words, isn’t this just the same ‘ole guy we’ve always known? Mark also tells us that they were offended! And in response to their unwelcoming reaction, Jesus explains: “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” 

As the saying goes, familiarity breeds contempt. Those with whom we’re the most familiar can become stale in our sight, taken for granted. If Jesus’ own townspeople could feel this way toward Him, we certainly are at risk of falling into the same trap. Keep in mind, that your value is found in what God thinks of you, not what other people think of you. But let me ask you: Have you begun to feel this way about someone in your life? Perhaps it is a family member or friend you are taking for granted. If you’re married, has the affection you once shared with your spouse grown cold? Or as a parent or teacher have you allowed frustration to overtake the warmth and compassion toward your children? Our tendency is to become less than appreciative of the people in our lives. Today, encourage those around you, and especially those closest to you.