< <  

Friday, March 13, 1998

  > >
Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13, 17-28
Psalm 105:16-20
Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46

View Readings
Similar Reflections

rejection: the makings of greatness

"The Stone Which the builders rejected has become the Keystone of the structure." —Matthew 21:42

Rejection is one of the most important experiences of our lives. We can respond to rejection by hating and rejecting others. We can spend our lives trying to show those who have rejected us how big a mistake they've made. We can fall into the trap of centering our lives on being rejected.

On the other hand, we can refuse to deal with rejection ourselves. We can cast it on the Lord (1 Pt 5:7). He is the most rejected Person ever, but He will in no way reject us (Jn 6:37). He doesn't get caught up in reacting to rejection. He is caught up in loving everyone, even enemies who reject Him. If we take our rejection to Jesus, we'll be caught up in love. This will lead to a life of true greatness. Joseph, for example, was rejected by his brothers (Gn 37:4ff). However, he didn't build his life around being rejected, but focused on doing God's will, and became one of the greatest men in history.

What we do with rejection will make or break us. Let's fix our eyes on Jesus (Heb 12:2), not rejection. Let Jesus be the Lord of your rejection. He will turn rejection to the good for those who love Him (Rm 8:28).

Prayer:  Jesus, I forgive those who have rejected me and give my pain to You.

Promise:  "It was the Lord Who did this and we find it marvelous to behold." —Mt 21:42

Praise:  Sunil knew that if he became a Christian, his Hindu family would disown him. He chose to follow Jesus, and has served Him faithfully as a pastor for several decades.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, July 26, 1997


Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 29, 1997