Mark 12:1-12 <- Click to read now
Throughout this daily Lenten devotional, we have considered the depths of rejection Jesus faced from those he came to save. As we encounter each situation, we may feel a sense of sorrow over this rejection, and with good reason.
Rejection is painful. If we think about being rejected, it sure isn’t a good feeling. It’s hard to imagine how much worse it feels for God, who gave everything to save us. It’s also sad to consider how much those who rejected Christ were missing in their lives, that only he could give them.
There is a peace we have when we accept Christ. This peace carries us through all the strife, heartache, and even the times of rejection we experience. There’s so much more to it than this, but I’m sure you get the idea. It’s hard to imagine life without Jesus being our Savior.
I think one of the most sorrowful things to consider regarding those who rejected Jesus, is the fallout from this rejection. If you were able to hear Sunday’s message, you know I shared this parable from the book of Matthew. Matthew gives us a bit more detail in this dialog between Jesus and these religious leaders, and this included a greater depth of consequences for those who reject Jesus. I think that’s one of the saddest things of all; the consequences of rejecting our only way of salvation.
Instead of remaining in sorrow over the ways Jesus is still rejected today, we can do something about it. Our actions, our words, and our witness can continue to point to God’s love through Christ. So keep planting seeds that God can make grow in due time. Keep producing fruit that helps you grow closer to Jesus, and keep producing fruit that God can use to work through us to share the good news of the Gospel message. Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, help us to consider the depths of this parable. Even if we feel like we can point a finger at someone else who is acting like these wicked farmers, help us to see You are calling out to us to evaluate how *we* are tending the vineyard. Help us to see if there are ways we act like these tenants in this parable and help us to redirect our actions and thoughts to serve You more faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.