Jesus was rejected by the people who should have welcomed Him (John 1:10-11). But it was not a surprise, because Isaiah had predicted it some 700 years previously (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus was fully aware of the ordeal which faced Him and He told the disciples on several occasions although they did not understand what He was saying. Even after His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, they could not see the prophetic connections (John 12:12-16). Now He was rebuking the religious leaders for not grasping the significance of the Scriptures which they claimed were God’s Word to them (John 5:39).

Quoting from the Old Testament, Jesus reminded them that God had already declared, some 1000 years previously, that the rogue builders of Israel would not have the last word (Psalm 118:22-24). Although they would reject Him, God would exalt Him. God's people considered Him a misfit; but Father God knew that He was the only One who could hold everything together.

Both Christ's rejection and exaltation was God’s plan. Even the terrible suffering of beatings and crucifixion was authorised by Father God. As Isaiah wrote, "Yet it was the Lord's will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer" (Isaiah 53:10).The wrath of God against the sins of the world was poured out on Jesus (Ephesians 5:3-6). It was a marvellous sacrifice on His part and a marvellous release from the curse of sin for us who believe. Not only that, but Jesus has been appointed as the Head over everything for the church (Ephesians 1:22) and that is marvellous too!

Never think that Jesus is just a nice person or good teacher. He is in charge of everything! In a marvellous way He took our sins away and also fitted us into His Body, the church, so that we (who once rejected Him) might be eternally near to Him. The wonder of the gospel message may get dimmed by our busy lifestyles; but if it does then we have forgotten that our lives are not about what we can do, but about what He has done for us. 'Marvellous' seems inadequate to express our delight and praise for all He has done for us. But whatever word you use - praise Him today, and live in such a way that He knows you are truly grateful!