Rev’s Mid-Week Thought
As we prepare our hearts for Palm Sunday, it should not escape us it marks the week the world changed—the moment when Jesus triumphantly entered Jerusalem, fulfilling His people’s long-awaited hopes and prophecies. For generations, the Jewish community had been yearning for a Messiah who would liberate and restore them from oppressive regimes and leaders. Now, amidst the jubilant cries of “Hosanna,” Jesus boldly stepped into the spotlight. This act of courage not only announced His identity as the awaited King but also challenged society’s expectations and social structures. It was a day that changed the world, setting the stage for events that would lead to His crucifixion, resurrection, and our access to eternal life.
However, the irony of that day lies in the contrasting experiences of those present in the temple versus those outside its walls. While the crowds gathered to witness Jesus’ arrival, many religious leaders and temple-goers were preoccupied with their rituals and traditions. Caught up in their duties and church business, they failed to recognize the momentous event occurring right outside their walls. This reflects a profound truth that resonates today: our busy lives and routines of “doing church” can blind us to the extraordinary. The people inside the temple prayed for deliverance yet missed the very manifestation of that prayer as it unfolded outside.
Today, this story urges us to reflect on how we prioritize our spiritual lives and commitments. Are we so consumed by our responsibilities and the logistics of church and faith that we overlook the profound movements of God around us?
Palm Sunday serves as a reminder to engage with our faith actively, seeking to see and recognize the transformative work of divine love in our midst. It calls us to be attentive to the world outside—the cries for peace, justice, and hope—and to respond with an open heart, much like those who welcomed Jesus that day on the streets of Jerusalem. In doing so, we, too, can be part of the ongoing journey of faith that changes lives and reflects the love that Jesus embodied.
Rev