Jesus taught His followers to take personal rejection with compassion, not disdain.
Jesus was rejected by family members and people from his hometown.
“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.” – Matthew 5:11-12
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:43-45
“The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.” – 2 Peter 3:9
What do we learn about God?
God gives us a free will to receive or reject his love.
God is compassionate and patient.
Jesus calls his followers to be compassionate, avoiding codependency and disdain.
Jesus understand personal rejection because he experienced it without defeat or disdain.
How should we respond?
Receive the love of God offered to us through Jesus.
Bring our pain and discouragement to Jesus.
Be compassionate to everyone in our lives despite rejection.