That interaction re-shaped how I viewed rejection. Of course, I wanted to
look at criticism with an open ear. I don’t want to blindly assume that I
know what is best. But when I am unafraid of rejection, I can love someone
despite their pain being expressed toward me.
It may sound weird, but after I saw an Instagram post where 500 students
voted they wanted me out, I felt an opportunity to lead worship in love.
The precious few times I got to go on the stage and worship before COVID
shut it all down, I was filled with both sorrow and love. Sorrow that this
had become all about me or whoever would replace me, but love to forgive
their hurtful words and proclaim Jesus all the same.
Most likely, there are hundreds of people who are happy that I’m not the
worship leader at Olivet anymore. That is okay with me. I’m hoping that I
can log a few more stories of people hating me and experiencing the love of
God through that.