December 12 - Capernaum

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“… leaving Nazareth He went and lived in Capernaum, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: ‘the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light.’” - Matthew 4:13-16

Capernaum, situated on the Sea of Galilee, is in ruins today. Yet this fishing village was once a bustling town. It had sprung up in a region once decimated by the Assyrians hundreds of years before. In Jesus time, under Roman occupation, they were a people dwelling in darkness. As Jesus began His ministry, He chose Capernaum the place to call home.

Jesus came and dwelt among them, announcing “Repent, the Kingdom of heaven is here.” And by His word and by His hand the people of Capernaum saw a great light. It was here Jesus called His first disciples – Peter, Andrew, James and John after the miracle of fish. It was here Jesus called Matthew, a tax collector, as a disciple. It was here He healed many: Peter’s mother-in-law, the woman with the issue of blood, even a Roman centurion’s servant. It was here, in Capernaum, that Jesus raised the synagogue ruler’s daughter from the dead.

Jesus chose to shine His light on people dwelling in darkness. An insignificant fishing village reminds us that no life is insignificant to Jesus. He came to shine His light on all who dwell in darkness. He still dwells where darkness hovers and shines His light on us and through us.

Rev. Sue Gunderson
Retired Lutheran (LCMC) Pastor



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