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Anyone who welcomes you is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me. Matthew 10:40, NLT

When Jesus returns to His hometown with His disciples, they file into the back of the Nazareth synagogue where He had worshiped as a child. The priest has just finished his closing remarks, and the musicians begin to lead the people in a song of worship: “Praises to Jehovah! Hosanna to the Lord our God!”

The Savior is overwhelmed with feelings of joy and gratitude. He is in the company of His family and friends, and together they are worshiping the one true God.

Before anyone has a chance to move, Jesus begins to speak. He teaches with uncommon boldness and clarity about the God they have just studied in the Scriptures.

When Jesus finishes teaching, the people leave the synagogue a little bewildered. A few of the neighbors come to shake His hand. Some of the synagogue officials extend to Him an uncomfortable, “Thanks for being with us today.” But the Savior reads their hearts, which are filled with questions such as, “Who does He think He is? Isn’t He just a carpenter’s son?” Scripture puts it this way: “And they took offense at Him” (Matthew 13:57, NASB).

Can you feel the rejection? Jesus is in His hometown, the place where He should be most accepted, yet His friends and neighbors take offense at Him and in their hearts put up a sign that clearly reads, “Unwelcome.”

Would you have offered Jesus acceptance and welcome in that situation, or would you have put up the “Unwelcome” sign? Before you answer that question, think about these words of Jesus: “Anyone who welcomes you is welcoming me.”

When I (Teresa) accept my husband, I am accepting Christ, who sent him to me. Every time I welcome David, I am saying, “Welcome” to the Lord.

In what ways can you daily accept and welcome your spouse into your life?