Seventy years ago Jackie Robinson made American history as the first black player in Major League Baseball.

In 1947, Robinson led the Brooklyn Dodgers to the World Series and was voted Rookie of the Year. Robinson was an incredible athlete, excelling at baseball and football at UCLA before entering MLB.

As good an athlete as Robinson was in 1947, he was an even better person. His ability to perform on the field was overshadowed only by his character and courage. When Branch Rickey of the Dodgers signed Robinson to his first conract, he knew it would provoke a variety of responses - some good, but many bad. Some players, coaches, and fans may try to intimidate Robinson, bully him, scare him, or even hurt him. Before Rickey gave Robinson the contract he said, "If a fight starts on the field, I'm picking you to win the fight...But are you strong enough not to fight? You must tell me that you're willing to commit yourself not to fight."

Robinson replied, "I think I can do it." Then he signed the contract and made history.

As the first black player in an all white league, Robinson's presence in MLB brought about a number of responses from others. Some accepted him, but many rejected him.

As you read the opening verses of Mark 6, Jesus Christ returns to his small hometown of Nazareth - a town of maybe 500 people on about 60 acres. Jesus Christ has become a regional celebrity in Galilee: healing people, casting out demons, teaching with authority, and even giving life to a dead girl. His ministry is making headlines in the local Galilean papers.

However, the people of his own hometown reject him. They know his background, they know his parents and siblings, and there isn't anything that can explain his miracles and teaching. So, instead of putting their faith in him when he returns, the people of Nazareth reject him. They oppose him. They will not and cannot believe in him.

The presence of Christ in his hometown provoked deep-felt responses to him. Sadly, many responded to him with opposition, offense, and disbelief.

As you read about Jesus Christ in the Bible, what is your response to him? To you read about him and take offense like the people of Nazareth?

Or do you read about his life and ministry and place your trust in him because he is the Son of God?

The Word of God is clear: you cannot be neutral to the Lord Jesus Christ. You will either accept Christ as your Redeemer and have the hope of eternal life or you will reject him and face God as your judge. The Bible reminds us of the eternal importance of accepting Christ and knowing the eternal peace and hope that he brings to those who belong to him.