Friday, March 22, 2024

Mark 12:10
“Didn’t you ever read this in the scriptures? ‘The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing, and it’s wonderful to see.’”

Jesus, who was subjected to unthinkable rejection, became our Savior.

As I was in my car, listening to music and thinking about how to best write about this verse, the song “One of These Days” by Tim McGraw came on. I had an Aha! moment. The lyrics about rejection, regret, and love fit well with what I wanted to say. Of course, I don’t really think that Jesus thought, “one of these days, you're gonna love me.” He already knew what would come … and he already loved us anyway.

Rejection is one of the worst feelings ever. It’s especially hurtful when the people we love reject us. And although we often reject our Heavenly Father, he always wants us—no matter the situation. 

Fear of rejection is something many of us struggle with. There have been so many times when I wanted to say something but didn’t. I want to help others who are suffering by sharing how Jesus helped me through it. But I’m afraid I won’t say it right or sound smart enough. Maybe they won’t want to be around me anymore at all. 

There’s a lesson to be learned from the fear of rejection. Despite how much we may value someone’s opinion of us, it doesn't really matter what they think. Ultimately, the only thing that matters is what God says about us. 

God says we are enough. We are loved. We are forgiven. I have learned to submit my fears to God and open-handedly serve him because I want to be a cornerstone to others finding Jesus. His grace is enough to keep me sharing how his love saved me. 

Our life experiences may not have any monetary value, but they are potentially life-giving contributions to the faith of those we encounter. 

Mark 12:43-44
⁴³ Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. ⁴⁴ For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”

Questions: 
Have you suffered the fear of rejection? Do you know your worth in God’s eyes? 

Are you afraid of what others might think if you shared your faith with them?

Next Steps:
Give your fears and rejections to God, knowing he will never reject you. Look for ways throughout your day to let others see that you know of a love that refuses rejection.

Prayer: 
Lord, I pray that I can be a cornerstone to help others find faith so they can learn to love you as I do. I know you will always be there for me and never reject me. I am so grateful for you and that you sent Jesus to save me. I will keep giving my all to you so that your name is praised, not mine. Amen.

This post was written by Casey Stengel, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.