These two verses tell us about the beginning of Jesus' ministry. He had a great sense of God's spirit and power as he returned to Galilee. People started talking about him. Jesus began teaching in the synagogues and Luke tells us that he was praised by everyone.
A brief interlude before opposition began. Jesus, of course, was always loved by more people than he was hated. But those who disliked him had the power and the disposition to work for his death. At this point, that is three years or so in the future. He was accepted as a teacher in the synagogues, which might be why some scholars have suggested he was considered a Pharisee. (The speculation has been that this is why the Pharisees were so angry with him; they felt he'd turned against his own).
As this is written, it is the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter. It seems strange to look back in his ministry and see a time before controversy, before any talk of opposition and crucifixion. In the musical, Jesus Christ, Superstar, there is a haunting song that Mary Magdalene and the disciples sing after his arrest. They ask the question, 'could we start again, please?' No doubt, as the slow weary day after the crucifixion passed, their thoughts did turn back to the time when the reports were all good. They considered the excitement of getting to know this remarkable man. How amazing to think he wanted them as disciples! They thought that, now, it had all come to this...his agonizing death upon a cross. Judas, who might have found forgiveness for his actions, could only despair and take his life. The rest of them hid in fear, depression and grief.
But as it turns out...the good beginning was outshone by the glory of Easter.
What do you feel is important to remember when going through difficult times?
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