Hometowns can be special. Some who move away look back to those locations with fondness and precious memories of football games, favorite restaurants, and where to find the best homemade ice cream. If you are familiar with classic black-and-white shows such as Andy Griffith, you know that iconic places like Mayberry are where you can find grandma’s cooking and the best mechanic, who may also be the local sheriff. It is a location that brings nostalgia and depending on your upbringing, good or bad memories.

In the case of Jesus and His childhood address, He was not known as the hometown hero. It sounds outrageous that He is literally the King of all kings, but He was not received well in his own neighborhood. In this particular locale mentioned in John 4:43-45, Jesus did not receive the honor He deserved.

People mocked Him, ridiculed Him and most of all doubted Him. They tried to outsmart their Creator because they did not fully grasp His goodness or His majesty.

I am sure this made Him sad. He loved even them and longed to dwell in unity with His people. Though He pursues, He will never force Himself on anyone. He is constantly seeking those to receive Him because He understands what a gift it is to commune with Him.

We know that as Apostolics, receiving Jesus is more than just accepting Him into our hearts by a nod or hand raised in agreement. That is wonderful, but He longs for an indwelling and deep relationship that goes beyond that. The Holy Spirit makes this possible.

He deserves every bit of reverence no matter where He is represented or what others around you think. Even if your hometown and all those in your vicinity reject Him, you have the choice to make as to whom you will serve. How will you receive Him when He draws near to you?