“He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” John 1:11. The coming of Jesus into the world was not met with glad shouts of welcome. Although numerous prophecies set the stage for His birth, and angels proclaimed its fulfillment, the nation of Israel as a whole was oblivious to the monumental event taking place in their midst. Thirty years later when Christ declared Himself to be the promised Messiah and Savior, the Jewish leaders called for His crucifixion. Never in human history had there been such blatant ingratitude.  That same thankless spirit still dominates the heart of man.  As Christ’s followers, we should not be surprised if the service we render to others in Jesus’ name is unappreciated or even spurned.  Certainly, it’s encouraging to know that our efforts are being gratefully received.  But even when there is no “thank you,” we can still rejoice.  We have the Lord’s approval, and that’s what matters most.  If you serve only for the applause of men, you sacrifice the approval of God.