On one's turf

On Thursday I had a picture of a sinister camouflaged creature emerging from some turf, reminding us to be discerning of what seems innocent but has potential to harm us. Then I was reminded of the expression to be "on one's turf" which means to be in one's familiar environment in which you feel comfortable and confident. There is also a disadvantage in such an environment, which another expression indicates, of "familiarity breeds contempt" whereby we can forget to be appreciative or are unable to recognise special attributes in someone we know well, flaws and all. If you feel unappreciated in your usual surroundings, Jesus understands. In Luke 4:24 we read Jesus's words, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in his hometown". God speaks His prophetic words through His anointed people but often they are ignored. Don't lose heart if you are willing to be used by God but are being ignored. God will raise you up in His time.