Painful Rejection 

In fulfilment of the prophecy in Isaiah, Jesus went willingly to the cross. He suffered an excruciating death, complete humiliation, rejection by His own people, and punishment for the world’s sins. Today we remember Jesus did all this for our sake. 

From an Africa Study Bible proverbs and stories note:

It is painful to be rejected and despised. We all have special characteristics and skills that we can share with the people around us. Each of us longs to be loved and accepted for who we are. When others push us away and exclude us, it hurts. We feel misunderstood and unappreciated.

The Songye people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo say, Shi kintu ee kintu, meaning, “Even a worthless person is worth something.” No person is truly worthless, even though he or she may be scorned, rejected, or abandoned.

Prophesying about the future Saviour, Jesus Christ, Isaiah said, “He was despised and rejected” and “we turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised and we did not care” (Isaiah 53:3-4). Humanity treated the Son of God as worthless. What a mistake! 

Yet Jesus did not avenge Himself, but humbly accepted the pain of rejection and unjust punishment so that He could save us from our sins. 

Today: 

Do you feel rejected at home, in the workplace, at school? Let this note remind you that you are of infinite worth to Jesus. He allowed Himself to be despised, rejected, and scorned for our sake. Just like Jesus, choose not to lash out or seek revenge. Do not allow the rejection to define you but stay focussed on what God has called you to do.