Jesus' Change of Residence

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season: Monday after Epiphany*

*Gospel : Mt 4:12-17, 23-25*

*First Reading : 1 John 3:22–4:6*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 2:7bc-8, 10-12a*

*Jesus' Change of Residence*

*1) Nazareth, Jesus' Home town*

Nazareth was a small village where Jesus spent His early years. 

It represents humility and simplicity, 

It also symbolizes rejection.

In Luke 4:16-30, after Jesus reads from Isaiah in the synagogue of Nazareth and declares Himself the fulfillment of prophecy, the people reject Him and try to drive Him out of town. 

This rejection prompts Jesus to leave Nazareth and begin His public ministry elsewhere.

*2) Need of Leaving the Comfortable Zone*

In a way the Nazareth was a comfortable zone for Jesus, since it was His Hometown

But Jesus had to leave Nazareth. 

His departure from Nazareth reminds us that following God's call may require leaving comfort zones and facing rejection.

*3) God's Mission : Not to a limited place*

It also shows that God's mission cannot be limited to one place or group of people — the Good News must go out to all.

That's why Jesus in His public ministry also goes to different places. 

*“Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.”* Mk 1:38

*4) The Significance of Capernaum*

Capernaum, located by the Sea of Galilee, was a busy town and a trade hub with a diverse population of Jews and Gentiles.

It became the center of Jesus' ministry, where He performed many miracles, preached, and called His first disciples (Peter, Andrew, James, and John).

The Sea of Galilee region, including Capernaum, was part of the lands of Zebulun and Naphtali, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 9: "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light."

This is a Symbol of God’s Light in Darkness

In Capernaum, Jesus called many ordinary people  like  fishermen, to follow Him.

This shows that, God calls the humble and ordinary to do extraordinary work.

*5) The Sea as a Metaphor*

The Sea of Galilee is often seen as a symbol of life’s uncertainties and chaos.

Jesus’ presence by the sea and His miracles there, calming the storm, walking on water, signify His sovereignty over chaos and His ability to bring peace.

Our Life is like a sea of Galilee, which involves lots of uncertainties, problems, worries and tensions. But as long as, Jesus is by this river side, one need not worry at all

*6) Lessons to learn*

*Respond to God’s Call*

Like Jesus leaving Nazareth, we may be called to leave familiar places or situations to follow God's will.

*Be a Light in Dark Places*

 

Jesus chose to live in Capernaum, a place of spiritual darkness, to bring light and hope. We are called to do the same in our communities.

*Embrace the Mission to All* 

Jesus' move to Capernaum shows that the message of salvation is for everyone, regardless of their background.

Am I ready to change my residence for the greater glory of God?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*