Red Rover

Blessed be the LORD, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me when I was in a besieged city. I had said in my alarm, “I am cut off from your sight.” But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried to you for help. Love the LORD, all you his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the LORD! (Psalm 31:21-24 ESV).

“Red rover, red rover, send Sally over” is the chant of a familiar children’s game. You remember the rules, I’m sure. Two teams line up opposite each other, no more than 30 feet apart. The first team agrees to call one player from the opposite team, and chants, "Red Rover, Red Rover, send (player's name) on over!" The person called runs to the other line and attempts to break the chain of children formed by the linking of hands. The problem for some is how those who are chosen are usually the weakest. It’s always easier to “clothesline” the smaller competitor. In that way it is more of a rejection than being chosen. Rejection is a part of life. We all face it, whether trying out for a team and being cut, being fired, or laid off. Toughest of all may be rejection in the family through a divorce, a child feeling rejected by a parent, or one sibling rejecting another. The only solution is through understanding God’s power is sufficient for us to overcome rejection. When we remember that He has already chosen us, any rejection can be dismissed. Let me make some practical suggestions: Trust that God will completely bring good out of the worst rejection. Regardless of how difficult our rejection might be at first experience, God’s promise is to work every experience to our good. Turn away from any feelings of resentment, bitterness, or anger. These emotions become a serious blockade to our peace and self-worth. Someone has accurately remarked: “Bitterness is the poison we swallow while hoping the other person dies.” Practice an attitude of forgiveness to those who reject you. This will produce the strength to move on. Jesus is our ultimate example for dealing with rejection. He chose to forgive on the cross, and He gives us the power to do the same when others reject us. Accept that power and peace.