As I read scripture I like to imagine I’m a part of the written events – I’m really there. A deeper understanding seems to develop as I feel a closeness to the people involved and things that are happening. Try it. Put yourself in the crowd watching for the Messiah to approach Jerusalem on that long ago Palm Sunday. What are you and the people around you expecting? A richly dressed king preparing for war? A bigger-than-life example of mankind riding on a chariot drawn by powerful horses? That was the main thought of many in the crowd, but that’s not what happened. Jesus came into Jerusalem at the start of the week in which he would be crucified riding on a colt in his typical gentle and peaceful way. He came as a part of God’s plan, not the plan hoped for by the mob. We, as they, should always try to follow God’s plan.
Even though the crowd had some realization of Jesus as the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, they didn’t realize what path He would lead them on. Actually, many people today still don’t understand or endeavor to follow that path. If we had been there we would have joined in the chorus of “Save!” and “Hosanna in the Highest!”
Not many days later, when Jesus was on trial, that same crowd cried out, “Crucify him!” Think about it. Would you have asked for his life or rushed to his side? It is easier to choose God’s plan if we look to His two main directives: love God and love each other. As the days of our lives pass we find it somewhat easier to follow our plan instead of God’s. But the eternal reward comes with being a part of God’s plan.
That last week of Jesus’ life teaches us many things; but, to me, one of the most important is that we give focused attention to God’s plan: to live and pray with God’s interests. God’s laws are wrapped in the language of love and that love should shape and design the fabric of our being. It’s as easy and difficult as that!
“Hosanna!” “The Son of God leads us to life eternal!”
Written by Billie Ann Haynes
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