evidence: Every day we go through life with preconceived notions and assumptions regarding the way we think of other people and the way in which we think events and situations might occur or ought to occur. These beliefs shape us and have an astounding impact on our perceptions of and reactions to the world around us, often without us even being aware of this influence. Isaac Asimov, when talking about preconceived notions and assumptions, once said, "Your assumptions are your windows on the world. I think that is great advice and something all of us need to heed. It is also great advice to keep in mind when looking at today’s gospel reading. Quite frankly, the power of God is always breaking through and shattering our assumptions. This is true today and it was true for Jesus when he began his ministry. [...] Today’s gospel reading reminds us that we, in whatever our context, are called to continue witnessing to the One who welcomes all, the one who loves all, the one who shows grace and mercy to all. Today’s reading reminds us that this Jesus is never going to fit into any box we create for him based on our assumptions. This Jesus who willingly went to the cross because of God’s love for this world, totally shattered all assumptions about what a messiah should look like and do. And, just maybe, Jesus continues shattering our preconceived notions and assumptions, our "windows on the world," scrubbing them off so we can more clearly see the light of God’s love and grace.