June 4, 2023 ~ Matthew 21:1-11
Holy Week refers to the time Christians remember the week of Jesus’ life that led to His crucifixion and burial. Truthfully speaking, a week is not enough time to meditate on this significant time. This summer, we are blessed to abide in this thought-provoking and inspiring week of Jesus’ life, as recorded in Matthew 21-27. We will witness a fuller and more intense revelation of Jesus.
In Jerusalem, Passover was a week of pitched religious and political fervor. Jewish pilgrims traveled to the city to observe Passover. In years past, Jewish Zealots attempted insurrections against Roman rule over Israel. The men who led these insurrections were often called Messiahs or Saviors of Israel.
On the first day of the week, two men entered Jerusalem through different gates with different postures and purposes. Pilate, the Roman governor of the region, entered the West Gate with a parade of chariots, Cavalry riders, and fully armed foot soldiers. The march inspired awe, fear, respect and obedience. Its purpose was to squelch political protest and rebellion. Jesus entered the East Gate on the back of a donkey, a sign of His kingship, in a humble posture of bringing peace. Pilate, a mere mortal, elevated himself. Jesus, being God in the flesh, humbled Himself. Entering the city, the King of Heaven set His mind on a purpose, a cross, and a grave. And though you weren’t there, the King set His heart on you.
A whole lot happens between a ride on a donkey and the darkness of a grave. We will see a man of action, a teacher, a judge, a prophet, a King, and a Savior. Jesus will teach truths from seven parables that reveal the true devotion of our hearts. Jesus will be blunt with self-concerned, religious hypocrites. He will lament over a city that is lost and far from God. He will answer questions about paying taxes to Caesar, the resurrection, the greatest commandment from God, and the Messiah. Jesus will speak prophetically about the end times, his second coming, and how to bear under tribulation. And when He comes again, Jesus tells us that we will want to be caught in the spiritual fruit business, tending to the matters of God’s house and kingdom. Jesus will be lifted up as a King rejected and abandoned by sinners. And finally, we will see Jesus as the Savior of all who confess their sins, their unbelief, their fears and weaknesses, and yet still profess Him as the Son of God and their Sovereign Lord.
Upon entering Jerusalem on a donkey, the King who humbled Himself in peace set His heart on You. What is the proof? Here it is:
... let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before Him, He endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(Heb 12:1-2)
For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring you to God.
(1 Ptr 3:18)
What brings King Jesus joy? Bringing you to God. A right relationship with God is the greatest treasure to desire and have. So, set your heart on the King who already has you in His.
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