Psalm 118:22-24
“The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Sunday afternoon our son and his family stopped by the house to wish me happy Father’s Day. In the conversation my wife, Joyce, mentioned a person who had held bitterness toward me for many years for some imaginary situation. All attempts to resolve the bitterness failed.
There was one ordeal that I experienced in my ministry. It is hard to think about, much less put into words that thousands of you will be reading. My purpose is to give you a hope and a confidence, that even though you may be rejected by men, you are never rejected by our heavenly Father.
The purpose of the rejection is known only to those who inflicted it. It started with snide remarks and innuendos. Comments were more and more accusatory and questioning whether I was too old to continue in the leadership of our congregation. False statements were made and I found myself feeling like an animal being pursued by hunters ready for the kill. Both Joyce and I suffered doubts and uncertainties.
I want to say right here that I am no perfect example. I make more than my share of mistakes, blunders and oversights. Some of the comments had elements of truth in them, so I could agree to a point, but taken out of context, they became a pretext.
I pray that there may be one or two of you out there who are able to relate to this and will know that this is God’s way of sending you assurance. There were many who stood beside me and defended me against the onslaught.
This reminds me that there may be people around you who are passing through a time of trial and turmoil. They need a friend who will come along side of them and listen to the cry of their heart. You could very well be the one who will raise their head up and allow them to gain new hope.
Today’s Scripture is a prophetic passage that Jesus used in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. It may be of encouragement to all of us, that our perfect Savior was rejected by those who should have rejoiced at His appearing. Jesus experienced the rejection of the religious leaders of His day. Many of us experience rejection in our life. I hope to be able to give us some encouragement when we face rejection.
Here is my conclusion concerning rejection. Jesus was rejected even though He was perfect in all ways. That being the case I can expect to be rejected in my imperfect ways. I shudder to suddenly realize that my wife and children will read that I am not perfect!
When we encounter rejection in our life, whether in the home, at church or at work, turn it over to the Lord. Write down on a paper what you are encountering and present it to Him in prayer. Keep your eyes fixed steadfastly upon Him and know that He will never reject you.
Now you know a little more about me. I want you to know that I will always try to be here for you. I will pray and intercede for you. We all need that someone who will be honest and share counsel that is based upon God’s Word. That is what I commit to give you.
Blessings dear hearts. Walk with God today. Trust Him completely and be a blessing.
— Pastor Cecil