“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
Into the Text
This week we will read the passion narratives, beginning with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and concluding with His resurrection. As Jesus headed for Jerusalem, a crowd spread their cloaks on the road and praised God for the mighty works they had seen. They were convinced that Jesus was who He said He was. They rejoiced because their promised deliverer had arrived. They believed His words, believed He had been sent by God, and believed He was their promised Messiah.
Yet, after this triumphal moment, Luke records how Jesus wept over Jerusalem. He had done many miracles, and some people in Israel believed and followed Him. But Jesus wept over Jerusalem and for the people there who had rejected Him because He had come to save the lost, all the lost, including His own people. But many did not believe He was the promised Messiah, the King of Israel.
As He entered Jerusalem, Jesus knew what He was walking toward. He knew He was facing His death and great suffering, but His heart was with the lost. His heart was on us, sinners, separated from God and unable to save ourselves. He alone deserves all the glory.
Jesus will not stop seeking you until you place your faith in Him. What is holding you back from trusting Him with your salvation today? And, if you have already trusted Him to forgive your sins and give you eternal life with Him, what is holding you back from fully trusting Him with whatever you are facing today? If He was willing to die for you, do you not think He is willing to give you all you need for today and tomorrow?