Not Accepted in His Hometown
“Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown.”
Luke 14:24
Jesus was in his hometown of Nazareth on the Sabbath, and he went to the synagogue where he stood up and read scripture from Isaiah 61:1-2. After reading this prophesy about Christ he said, Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing (Acts 4:20), revealing to them that he was the Christ. The people in the synagogue responded: Isn’t he just the carpenter we know—Mary’s son, the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And don’t his sisters still live here in town?” So they had a problem accepting him (Mark 6:3). They didn’t accept Jesus as anymore than just a carpenter, the son of Mary. What kept the people in Jesus’ hometown from believing Jesus?
The people only saw Jesus’ earthly identity and refused to believe that the little kid that lived in their village could possibly be the Christ. Do we sometimes have the same problem? People who knew us before we accepted Christ tend to only see us for who we were prior to Christ. How do we handle the situation when people who knew us in our earlier years find it difficult to believe Christ has changed us? Jesus’ own family found it difficult to believe that he was the Christ. For even his own brothers did not believe in him. (John 7:5).
When others see the change Christ is making in us, having known us in our previous way of life, it can be difficult for them to believe we have changed. I have encountered those who believe people don’t change, with the exception of our understanding as we age. When ministering to others who don’t believe we have changed, the only choice we have is to continue walking the Christian walk. We reveal to them our love and patience and we never argue, but instead show Godly wisdom with understanding. We accept others’ beliefs and we listen intently for understanding. Most of all we need patience because it takes time, sometimes months or years, for people to realize that the Lord has really changed us. We continue to be Christ-like, walking confidently and humbly, never becoming angry and argumentative when others refuse to believe us.
Jesus loved those in Nazareth even though they refused to believe he was the Christ. After his death, resurrection, and ascension into heaven, many believed. If he had been angry and argumentative with those in his hometown, it could have made it difficult for them to believe even after his resurrection.
Today, treat everyone with love and patience, especially those in your family, because God’s love in your heart is what softens theirs. Always reflect Christ by showing kindness and encouragement. One of the best ways to show people that the Lord has changed you is to always remain calm and in control, reflecting Godly wisdom.
Let’s Pray: Lord, help me to reflect Christ to others, especially those who have known me and find it difficult to believe you have changed me. Help me to always remain in control of my emotions, revealing your peace with love and wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.