From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

Oh poor me, nobody likes me, everybody hates me. Feel like that some days? Get over it!

Some years ago, my friend Al Snow, the "combat photographer" for many veterans groups, gave me a small nail on a leather string. The nail has a square head and is a replica of the type of spike that was used as they nailed the hands and feet of Jesus to the cross. It is a constant reminder to me when I think I'm having a bad day of what a bad day Jesus endured during his agonizing death on the cross.

So if you feel rejected and despised, remember, so did Jesus. His life seemed riddled with rejection. His neighbors in his own hometown laughed at Him. His family wondered if He was losing His sanity. His closest acquaintances betrayed Him, and yet another even denied Him. To top it all off, His own fellow citizens in the nation of Israel traded His life for that of a murderous criminal.

When you top that – go cry a little; until then, do what Jesus did...He loved His enemies, He loved them through their unforgiveness, mocking and scoffing. So run to Jesus, he really understands what you may be going through. Endure the fire…it's producing pure gold!

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