Reading: Matthew 4:12-17

Matthew 4:12 – “Now when Jesus heard that John was arrested, he went to Galilee.”

Fresh off his experience with Satan’s temptations in the wilderness, Jesus hears “that John was arrested.” John the Baptist’s words of truth had angered Herod and others, which led to his arrest. Speaking words of truth, especially when aimed at those in power, can lead to such results even today. Perceiving the danger of remaining in or around Jerusalem, Jesus “went to Galilee.” In the far northeast of Israel, Jesus sought to begin his ministry in and around Capernaum. In verse 9 this region is described as “Galilee of the Gentiles.” This remote area had been invaded and overrun time and time again, leaving behind a diverse and mixed population.

At times we can seek places and spaces that feel safe or a bit out of the way. This can be for good or for bad reasons. Just starting out at our first real job, for example, we often start at a small company, learning the ropes in this safer and kinder environment. Jesus went to Capernaum. But some of the time we seek refuge or respite in these kinds of places too. After a traumatic event, after an unwanted change, after a time that really tested us, we can seek a place or space that feels safe and often out of the way. Exiting the wilderness, Jesus went to Capernaum.

This small fishing village would become a home base, a safe and secure place for Jesus and the disciples to return to over and over. It was from this place that “a great light” came, proclaiming, “Change your hearts and lives! Here comes the kingdom of heaven.” Finding our places and spaces that allow us to witness to Jesus and his still coming kingdom of light and love, may we carry the light to the people who still “lived in the dark.” May it be so for us all.

Prayer: Lord God, lead and guide us by the power of your Holy Spirit. Whether we are in a dark valley and need your light or whether we are on the mountain filled with your light, meet us where we are at, bring us what we need, use us as you will. Comfort us or send us out to comfort. Strengthen us or lead us out to strengthen others. Fill us with your power and presence. Send us out to be your power and presence. Amen.