Rejected

The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/090213.cfm) reminds me that as servants of God, we will experience rejection, like Christ.

In basketball, the centers or big guys are usually the dominant players in the court. Smaller, although more athletic players, are afraid of them, especially if the big guys are known to be good in blocking shots. They are afraid of their shots being rejected by the big defender. And being rejected affect some players. Some get traumatized and would not want to go near the big guys again, thus affecting the quality of shots they make. Some does not want to take shots anymore, while some want to get back at the big guys and exert more effort to be able to make the basket.

In the gospel, we see Jesus experience this. Rejection.

He was doing God’s work, proclaiming God’s message. What he was doing was right. What he was preaching was correct. But he still got rejected. Sucks, right?

In the passage he says “because he (God) has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.” That is exactly what Jesus is trying to do – to bring the good news of salvation. However, his own people and eventually the chosen people Israelites are obviously not the poor God was referring to. They rejected his message. They rejected Jesus. But this did not put Jesus down, this did not dishearten him, because he has faith in God’s mission, and he knows that the poor – the gentiles, will be the ones ready and willing to accept his message of salvation.

As we live for God, as we do God’s work, serve him, we too will experience rejection. Well, if we don’t, probably we’re not walking his path, right? But these rejections should not dishearten us. Like Jesus, we should just move forward and continue doing God’s work, having faith that God, who anointed us, will continue to use us as he wishes, and our efforts will never be futile as we work for God.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another week. Lord, I ask that you give me a heart like Jesus. May I never tire of working for you, despite the challenges, rejections and hurts I experience. May I not focus on these things, but focus on you, your message, and your reward as I work for you. May I always get strength, guidance and direction from you as I live for you. Amen.

Blessed Week!

In Christ,

-g-