Lectio: Action, Reaction, Forward Momentum

A Thought on the Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of the Epiphany, Year C

Note: The majority of churches following the lectionary will be observing the Feast of the Presentation, as it ranks above the Fourth Sunday of Epiphany. For the purposes of Lectio, we will proceed with normal progression, as this is not a frequent occurrence (next time will be 2031).

If you’ve ever done conflict resolution, mediation, coaching, counseling, or anything involving problem solving and interpersonal relationships, then you’re familiar with the technique separating action and reaction. In this instance, you have Jesus’ action of preaching Isaiah 61. In Luke 4:21-30, we hear the reaction to his prophetic critique.

It is extreme. They decide he needs to go off the cliff.

Jesus walks through the crowd and goes on his way.

The Word of God is spoken clearly and without any doubt. The Word is flesh right in front of them. But the Word is not making an argument, a defense, a debate. There is no apologetics here. Jesus is not spending his time trying to ripen a crop that isn’t ready for harvest. He goes on his way, because there are more that will hear and be healed than right in front of him.