Popularity and rejection

They were all well impressed with him and marvelled at the eloquent words that he spoke. They said, ‘Isn’t he the son of Joseph?’ He said to them, ‘I am sure that you will quote this proverb to me, “Doctor, heal yourself.” You will also tell me to do here in my home town the same things you heard were done in Capernaum. I tell you this,’ Jesus added, ‘prophets are never welcomed in their home town.’ (verses 22-24)

Read Luke 4:21–30

There is often a fine line between popularity and rejection. People in high-profile positions, such as politicians and sportspeople, know this only too well; they can be popular one day and booed the next. People love cheering their heroes and enjoy waving their banners. But they can quickly turn to booing when their expectations aren’t realised.

Jesus never aimed to be popular, but he was often surrounded by people because they just wanted to be near him. They loved listening to him and marvelled at his eloquent words. He did things so very well. But Jesus knew their fickle ways and how easy it was for them to switch their loyalty when things didn’t go as they expected. ‘After all, he’s only one of us’, they would say, shaking their heads and walking away. There was a cross before his eyes as he heard them say these things. ‘How many times I wanted to put my arms around [you] . . . but you would not let me!’ (Matthew 22:37).

Have you perhaps experienced something like this, too? Those who are nearest and dearest to you just don’t seem to care as they used to. Don’t give up. Keep praying, because the Lord can use your prayers to do for you what you can’t do on your own.

Lord Jesus, I pray for my family and all who are close to me. Draw them to you and give them the joy of knowing you and loving you as their Saviour. Amen.

Adapted by Lutheran Media, from a devotion written by Pastor Len Tscharke, in “Refreshment for each day” (LCA, Openbook Publishers)

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