Trusting in a world of rejection, fear and uncertainty
I wonder what it was like for the disciples living this story of rejection and mission we are hearing in Mark, with Jesus saying, “Why are you afraid? Do you still not trust?”[1] I wonder what it was like being in Mark’s community, living in uncertain and fearful times? When I was ordained 35 years ago the church still held an important place in our society. Now it feels like we have been pushed to the side-line and rejected. And Covid has changed the landscape again. I wonder what it is like for us with all that causes us fear and uncertainty.
Rejection is a hard part of life. St. Francis called it perfect joy. But he was a little crazy. As Paul’s letter to the Corinthians reminds us Paul was constantly rejected. He did not meet people’s expectations of what a super apostle should look like and his message was too inclusive. In Marks gospel we find Jesus’ family being shamed by his actions and rejecting his message and ministry. Those who seemed to know him best told him to get back to where he belonged – a lowly carpenter. Jesus warned his disciples to expect the same. And then he sent them out to continue living the reign of God. He doesn’t send them out at a triumphal moment, but at the very moment nothing is going right. In the midst of their fear and uncertainty they join the God’s work of generosity and compassion.
This week’s readings invite us to consider what causes us to feel rejected, uncertainty and fear and how we respond to that. In the Monday morning Daily Devotion we are encouraged to pray “Always be joyful, pray continually; give thanks, whatever happens.”[2]
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