Rejected But Undaunted - Jesus In Nazareth

[Jesus] said, “You will undoubtedly quote me this proverb: ‘Physician, heal yourself’—meaning, ‘Do miracles here in your hometown like those you did in Capernaum.’ But I tell you the truth, no prophet is accepted in his own hometown.”

Luke 4:23-24

It’s hard to imagine someone who has seen the classic movie The Wizard of Oz not remembering the defining line in the movie: “There’s no place like home.”

For most men, that is very true. Home is where your family and old friends live. It’s where you go to reminisce and visit places that hold special memories. It’s where you visit the old fishing holes, movie theaters, and burger joints that meant so much to you as a youngster.

Soon after Jesus began his earthly ministry, he took the time to visit his hometown of Nazareth. There he had worked with his earthly father, Joseph, in the carpentry shop, studied the Scriptures in the local synagogue, and played with other Nazarene children.

The people of Nazareth welcomed Jesus home and allowed him to speak at their Sabbath service at the synagogue. At first, the things Jesus said amazed them, but it wasn’t long before he ruffled some feathers.

What had been a peaceful Sabbath-day congregation turned into an irate mob intent on throwing Jesus off a nearby cliff.

These were Jesus’ friends and family!

Jesus miraculously escaped the angry crowd in Nazareth that day. Although it’s difficult to imagine his feeling anything but grieved at what had happened, he didn’t allow his hometown’s rejection to discourage or sidetrack him from completing his mission.

It never feels good when you’re rejected, and it’s especially difficult when rejection comes from your own friends and family. Don’t take the rejection of your life of faith personally, but see it as another way that you can follow in Jesus’ footsteps.