…Everyone was amazed and said “Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?” Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas. All his sisters live right here among us. Where did he learn all these things?And they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family.” – Matthew 13:54-57 (NLT)
Jesus returned to Nazareth, his hometown teaching, healing, and encouraging people who were astonished and fascinated by His wisdom and expository knowledge. They marvelled at His gracious words, but this did not move them to accept Him. Instead, they were so offended at Him that they wanted to kill Him – see Luke 4:28-30.
Since they knew His background, the people assumed Jesus couldn’t be anything special. It’s strange and sad that His own people whom He grew up with would reject Him and His message!
People who knew you when you were growing up may not necessarily know you now. They may not understand what you’re trying to achieve and as such, may discourage you or even oppose you.
God may be doing something great and unique in you and through you and you’re so excited to share it with family, friends, colleagues, and church family. But the people whom you thought would embrace you and your message are actually offended at you because of what they know about you and your background.
The people in Jesus’ day asked where He got the wisdom and power to do miracles. They scoffed at His background and His upbringing. Perhaps people are asking the same question about you. All they remember is your past, your background, your lack of education, the mistakes you made, and your poor upbringing.
When Jesus found Philip and asked him to follow Him, Philip immediately wanted to share the good news with Nathanael – “‘…We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ ‘Nazareth!’ exclaimed Nathanael. ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth?’” John 1:45-46 (NLT)
Perhaps people are asking if anything good can come from you. Maybe because of what people are saying, you’re asking yourself if anything good or of worth can come from you!
Remember, Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Yet, it pleased God that His hometown will be a place as obscure and insignificant as Nazareth.
Although Jesus was highly disappointed at the attitude and unbelief of His people, He did not waste time arguing or trying to convince them. He simply went on to other towns and villages to preach to people who were ready to accept Him and His message of salvation.
Friend, be encouraged, you are significant before God. He has prepared people to embrace you, your gift, your dream, your vision, and your message.
People may show indifference or even reject you. Don’t get into quarrels or fights with them. Do what Jesus did, move on!
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 