In this weeks Gospel, Mark 6:1-6 Jesus says, “Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown and among their own kin, and in their own house.”

I often reflect that many times in life things don’ t turn out the way we hoped. For Jesus I wonder if he would have returned to his hometown if he knew he was going to be ridiculed and his work ineffectual.

For me I have to do what I need to do in my life to achieve the things I want to achieve. Sometimes I may fail and sometimes I may never be successful in what I want to accomplish. However I never want to die wondering because ultimately I will regret not trying. Furthermore that despite the outcome I need to accept the end result without reservation.

So what motivates people to attempt different things?

I believe support from others drives people to take risks because they know the same people will be there when they fail. Furthermore they encourage you to take the same possibilities again.

Another motivating factor is a willingness to try and do something different. It may take you out of your comfort zone but it helps you acknowledge just where you stand in your relationships with other people.

Additionally, not being fearful of failure will assist in influencing the decisions we make in the future. Thus not being concerned about what other people think.

Finally, I must acknowledge without excuses or blame the end result. Like Jesus accepting the rejection of his hometown I must not want retribution or react with anger but dust the sand off my feet and move on to the next challenge no matter the disappointment. No third umpire because my conscience says for me to do God’s will not my will. So I must look forward never look back as this is the only way to be effective and able to face the next opportunity.