Facing Rejection

Mark 6:1-13

In Mark 6:1-13, we read about Jesus facing rejection in his hometown. This shouldn't come as a surprise because, throughout the Scriptures, God's chosen representatives have often faced rejection from their people. For example, Cain rejected his brother Abel, Jacob by Isaac, and Joseph by all his brothers, who sold him into slavery. Moses, too, was rejected by his people even after defending them against Egyptian oppression. In Luke 13:34, we are reminded how the prophets were rejected and killed by their people. This recurring theme of rejecting God's chosen ones helps us understand why Jesus was rejected not only by his people but also by the world.

The disciples witness Jesus' rejection firsthand, preparing them to navigate their own experiences of rejection in the ministry Jesus is sending them out to practice (Mark 6:7-13). This serves as a reminder for us as believers in Christ: when we proclaim the Gospel, we will encounter the same attitude of rejection that Jesus faced. The ministries and missions we are called to will inevitably meet resistance and rejection as long as sin exists. People will reject both the message and the messenger. It's the same challenge, just at different times.

The only encouragement we have to endure this mission is knowing that Jesus can sympathize with us and has given us his teachings on navigating it. Jesus doesn't call us to something he hasn't experienced and overcome himself. Jesus also has provided us with a special community—the Church. The Church should be where rejection for believing in and obeying Jesus is not met with further rejection but with support and acceptance.

Peace be with you!

- Pastor Bruce