As we embrace the festive cheer and warmth of Christmas, it's also a poignant time to reflect on themes of rejection and resilience, vividly illustrated in the story of the Nativity and the lives of the Marist founders. Rejection, while often painful, carries a profound spiritual significance that aligns with the deepest teachings of our faith.
The narrative of Christmas itself is marked by rejection. Mary, the mother of Jesus, faced immense societal scorn when she conceived Jesus—considered a scandalous event as she was unmarried. This rejection could have led to severe punishment, even death by stoning, yet it was through this profound adversity that the promise of salvation quietly took root. Similarly, during the birth of Jesus, Mary and Joseph experienced rejection firsthand when no inn in Bethlehem would accommodate them, compelling them to find refuge in a humble stable. This rejection did not end with the birth of Christ; soon after, as King Herod sought the newborn’s life, Mary and Joseph, with baby Jesus, fled to Egypt, living as refugees.
The founders of the Marist movement similarly encountered rejection. Marcellin Champagnat, struggling academically, faced rejection in school which later inspired his dedication to the education of young people, particularly those overlooked by society. Jeanne-Marie Chavoin experienced rejection from various religious orders before founding the Marist Sisters, and even faced estrangement within her own Marist community. François Perroton, despite facing opposition from her superiors, pursued her calling and became a pioneering Marist missionary in Oceania—a testament to her unyielding faith and resilience.
Simon Sinek reminds us that 'The fear of rejection prevents connection and creativity.' This insight encourages us to face rejection as an opportunity to strengthen our resolve and deepen our connections with others, rather than retreating in fear. Similarly, Richard Rohr asserts, 'We grow spiritually much more by doing it wrong than by doing it right.' This reassures us that our missteps, including experiences of rejection, are not merely setbacks but essential for spiritual growth.
Brené Brown's perspective, 'Don't try to win over the haters; you are not a jackass whisperer,' injects a bit of humour and practical wisdom, reminding us to focus our energy on those who value and accept us, rather than trying to please everyone.
These stories of rejection from the very figures we venerate show us that being rebuffed or sidelined, while disheartening, can also be a divine invitation to deeper understanding and closeness to God. It reminds us that rejection is not an end but a redirection, a path that can lead us to fulfill our greater purpose in ways we might never have envisioned.
In the Beatitudes, Jesus said, 'Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' This beatitude reassures us that enduring rejection for the sake of our faith and righteousness aligns us with the prophets and saints who walked before us, and it is they who illuminate our path towards the kingdom of God.
This Christmas, as we reflect on these narratives of rejection, let us find solace in knowing that our own experiences of being turned away or misunderstood are not in vain. In the divine economy of salvation, every rejection is an opportunity to grow in grace, deepen our faith, and reaffirm our commitment to God’s plan for us. Let the stories of Mary, Joseph, and the Marist founders inspire us to embrace our own rejections as integral, not incidental, to our spiritual journey and mission.
In the silent nights of our own lives, may we see the rejection not as absence but as the presence of a profound promise—God with us, Emmanuel.
Journal and reflect on these questions
What are some examples of rejection faced by Mary and Joseph during the Christmas story?Recall specific details from the blog about the challenges faced by Mary and Joseph.
How did Marcellin Champagnat respond to being rejected at school? Think about how rejection influenced Marcellin Champagnat's life choices and achievements.
Why do you think Jeanne-Marie Chavoin and François Perroton faced rejection, and how did they deal with it? Consider the reasons behind the rejections faced by these figures and their responses to these challenges.
Simon Sinek said, 'The fear of rejection prevents connection and creativity.' How do you think this applies to the story of Mary and Joseph?Apply Simon Sinek’s quote to the biblical context, fostering deeper understanding and connection.
According to Richard Rohr, why might facing rejection be important for spiritual growth?Connect the idea of spiritual growth with the experiences of rejection mentioned in the blog.
Brené Brown advises not trying to win over the haters. How could this advice have been helpful to the characters in the Christmas story or the Marist founders?Encourages critical thinking about how modern advice on dealing with rejection might apply to historical or biblical figures.
What does the blog suggest is the ‘promise’ found in experiencing rejection during silent nights?This question prompts reflection on the blog’s interpretation of how rejection can lead to finding a deeper promise or meaning in one’s life.
Song - You Say - Lauren Daigle
Final Prayer
Loving Father, in the quiet moments of rejection and struggle, we seek Your comforting presence. Grant us the courage to face rejection with grace, trusting that each no we encounter leads us closer to Your perfect yes. Help us to see ourselves as You see us—worthy, loved, and created with purpose. Strengthen our faith, so we may use our trials as testimony to Your enduring love and mercy. May we always find solace in Your promises and extend the same compassion and understanding to others that You continually offer to us. Amen.
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