The gospel passage Matthew 13:54-58 offers a profound reflection on the nature of assumptions and the limitations they impose on our understanding and beliefs. In this passage, Jesus returns to his hometown, and the people there are astonished by his wisdom and miraculous works. However, instead of embracing him as the Messiah, they respond with skepticism and disbelief, saying, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?”  After all, wasn’t he just the son of a carpenter? They knew his family. At this point, perhaps it is an honest question? Maybe for some, but we finally read, “And they took offense at him.” Continue reading →