He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.
–
John 1:11
Rejection is painful. Many people struggle with it this at this time of year. Whether concerned about the acceptance of family and friends or trying to make sure others do not feel neglected, both lead to holiday exhaustion.
Jesus of Nazareth was a real person. He faced the pain of rejection from those who should rightly have rejoiced to know Him. Upon returning to His hometown to begin His ministry, Jesus was invited to speak in the local synagogue. He opened the scriptures to Isaiah 61:1-2, a foretelling of the anointed one coming from God to rescue Israel. As He finished the reading, He took a seat and said: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21). The crowd was stunned, the person they previously challenged as having a “questionable” lineage was now indicating those scriptures were referring to HIMSELF! The religious power brokers were incensed and worked in the crowd to stir up murderous indignation. Soon many people sought to throw Jesus off the cliff outside of town, one He probably played on as a child.
Jesus did not apologize for their discomfort or try to convince anyone. His hometown rejection did not interfere with what He knew He was called to do or who He knew Himself to be.
In this season of celebration, be ready to give the reason for your joy, the redemption of humankind brought to Earth through the life and death of Jesus Christ. Some will receive your message gladly while others may indeed reject it. Pray for many this Christmas to realize and accept Christ as the Savior.
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