text: Jesus chose (note the word "chose") to leave the John the Baptist group, because he came to the realization that to stand on the other side of the Jordan and shout critiques of the High Priesthood and the collaborating Jews was not the way to go.  He also chose not to lead an ascetic life, but a life he was criticized for because he mixed with sinners and wore soft clothes (such as sinners might wear).  One of the issues he would have to deal with was what should your attitude be towards foreigners, not Jews, not members of the Chosen People.  Here is recorded the decision he made. The Gospel writer records it because it is so important.  God's Kingdom is for all.  And thank God he came to that conclusion.  Where would we be without it?  Thomas Gumbleton has heard the Good News.  And he is repeating it for us.  Thank God Almighty.  Thank God.