Hometown disadvantage

Devotions from Jefferson Vann # 2392

John 4:43-45

Joh 4:43 So after two days he left there for Galilee.

Joh 4:44 (since Jesus himself had testified that a prophet in his own country has no honor.)

Joh 4:45 When they entered Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him because they had seen everything he did in Jerusalem during the festival. Because they also had gone to the festival.

Hometown disadvantage

We encounter a bit of reluctance on the part of Jesus and his disciples to go back home to Galilee. In fact, they appear to delay their trip two whole days, desiring to stay in the Samaritan region – a place where Jews normally go out of their way to avoid.

I understand the reluctance perfectly. I have often wanted to stay on the field, and not go “home” to do deputation. Ministering where you are appreciated is so much more enjoyable.

Fortunately for Jesus and his disciples, they were welcomed back to Galilee with honor, because the Galileans had experienced their ministry in Jerusalem.

LORD, lead us where you want us to go, and help us honor you even in places where we have not always been appreciated.