Embracing Obscurity: Learning from Jesus’ Rejection

In a world that values fame, success, and recognition, it can be easy to lose sight of what is truly important. We often strive to be seen, heard, and admired, forgetting that true satisfaction comes from following our purpose and fulfilling our mission, regardless of who is watching.

For years, and to this very day, I struggle with a case of bad metrics. These bad metrics being follower count, attendance, and financial viability - every single one these are quantitative means. And in my own spiritual formation I have been working hard to discover a practice from the life of Jesus that frees me to embrace obscurity.

And I have come to see that this concept of embracing obscurity can be found within Matthew 11 and Jesus, from the scriptures, can teach us to focus on serving Him rather than seeking the approval of others.

Learning from Jesus’ Rejection

Matthew 11 is a powerful chapter that reveals Jesus’ disappointment with the cities that did not accept him despite his miraculous works. He mentions Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, places where he had performed many miracles, yet the people remained indifferent to his message. This rejection could have been a reason for Jesus to focus on gaining followers or to seek revenge, but instead, he embraced obscurity and continued to do what he knew was right.

We can learn from Jesus’ example that rejection and obscurity are not always negative experiences. They can teach us humility, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to our mission, even when it seems that no one is listening. Jesus did not let the lack of recognition affect his purpose; instead, he remained focused on serving God, and his ministry continued to grow, ultimately reaching millions of people worldwide.

But, don’t “embrace obscurity” for the sake of growing something large - that’s not the point.

Working with Jesus Rather than the Crowds

Embracing obscurity means focusing on working with Jesus rather than seeking the approval of crowds.

At the end of Matthew 11, Jesus says this:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. **** Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11v28-30, NIV)

And Eugene Peterson’s Message translation highlights a key phrase that I want us to see:

“Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.”

That’s the vision I’m after for my life and I implore you, within any vocation and calling you have, to do the same. Our goal is to abide in Jesus (John 15) and in that abiding invite others to follow as Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11v1:

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

We should strive to follow our purpose and mission, regardless of how many people are watching or applauding. We should not be concerned with the amount of likes or money we receive, but rather with living a deep life with Jesus that encourages others to live a deep life, regardless of it is just one person.

Jesus’ message was never about the quantitative metrics. He taught us to love and serve one another, to be humble and kind, and to make disciples. We should follow his example and focus on serving others, even if it means embracing obscurity.

The Satisfaction We Seek

Embracing obscurity is a powerful concept that can teach us to focus on serving Jesus rather than seeking the approval of others. We can learn from Jesus’ rejection and his relentless pursuit of his mission, even in the face of rejection and indifference. By focusing on Jesus and what He calls us to, we can be with Him, make make disciples and ultimately find true satisfaction and fulfillment.