John 6:66-69
How do you deal with rejection? Do you sulk or pout? Do you get mad or look for an opportunity to show that person what they are missing? Or do you continue in what you know is the right path keeping your eyes on your purpose and mission. I wish I could say I always do the latter, but that is not the case. I think we can learn a lot from the scripture passage today about dealing with rejection from Jesus.
To keep this in context remember the Jewish leaders were already looking to take Jesus down because He did not observe all of their laws and was calling Himself the Son of God. The crowds had loved Him because He was healing the sick, teaching the common man as well as religious and even providing food. They longed to make Him and earthly King who would defeat the Roman Empire and provide for their every physical need. They wanted the things He could do not Jesus Himself. So when Jesus started using the bread and wine as an example of His body and blood the people began to back up. Verse 60 records where his disciples say, “This is a hard saying. Who can listen to it.” Jesus is trying hard to help them understand that His kingdom is a spiritual one, and the only way to inherit it or be a citizen is to believe in God through Him.
At that point verse 66 records that many turned away. Jesus’ response was not to soften the message to make it more appealing. He spoke truth and moved forward with those who wanted to go. He even gave the disciples freedom to leave, but as Peter said, “to Whom would we go? You have the words of Eternal Life.” We believe and have come to know You are the Holy One of God.” Peter had his eyes on the most important goal. Jesus!
Jesus is who we must keep our eyes on as well. Then we set the course life and our days by Him and His will for our lives. Everything we say, do, everywhere we go, how we act must bring Him glory and be in His will. When this is your goal it may cause others to leave you or reject you. They may not understand your new life and goals, but these choices lead to eternal life. It pleases the Father and the end result is eternal reward. If they leave, let them go. Then run with those seeking after the same prize and goal that you are.