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Epiphany     Epiphany 4     Luke 4:21-30

Jesus’ First Public Teaching (YC No 169)

When hearing gospel stories told

We journey there to days of old,

And being there we listen for

Good guidance well beyond the law;

In Jesus’ words he pointed to

New insights as to what is true.

Back then, when listening to his word,

They were impressed with what they heard;

He stated to them publicly

The purpose of his ministry;

Yet his first teaching caused offence;

And opposition grew intense.

The stories Jesus chose to use

Were ones where God ignored the Jews;

Instead God worked with gentiles, and

With them, God did what had been planned;

Those listening let their anger grow;

Their prejudice began to flow.

Can we sit in the judgement seat?

Is racial friction obsolete?

The challenge Jesus gave that day

Still haunts the world in every way;

We dare not limit God’s rich grace;

God’s love abounds for every race.

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