From Cheers, to Jeers, to Tears....but Wait!
In reflection of Palm Sunday please read all of John 12, and Luke 23 and 24. In John 12, Jesus was anointed by Mary at Bethany and then made a joyous entry into Jerusalem. He predicted His death, but the people did not believe Him. In Luke 23, Jesus was on trial before Pilate, and the people turned and yelled out for Him to be crucified. Jesus died on the cross and was buried. Luke 24, depicts the miracle of the resurrection of Jesus and His ascension into Heaven.
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey the crowds cheered for Him with praises. They shouted, “Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna God save us!" This time of great praise was short lived. A few days later, the cheers turned into jeers. The very same crowd shouted, “Crucify Him” and wanted Barabbas another prisoner released. As the verdict was given, Barabbas was freed in exchange for Jesus. That same crowd shed tears as they watched the living Son of God’s life slip from Him, as he breathed His last on the cross.
The crowd will always do what they want, often times no matter what. Be the one in the crowd that goes against the popular vote. Be the one that says, “because you say so Lord, I will.” Be the one to say God, “here I am, send me.” Be the one that says “Jesus, thank you for the cross.”
But wait! The story doesn’t end there. God who loves us unconditionally no matter what we did, said, or thought in the crowd, has turned our tears to cheers, yet again. Three days after Jesus’ death, God created another miracle and raised Him from the grave. He is now seated at the right hand of God the Father today. Jesus is listening to our prayers and petitioning God on our behalf.
When we say yes to Jesus, the universe changes, lives change, generations change. Will you be the change in the universe for the glory of God? There is no greater joy than to pass on the gospel of the Lord to your children, your children’s children, your neighbors. Everybody is our neighbor.
The Bible says in Romans 10:9, 10, if you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus was raised from the dead by God, you will be saved. It is the believing and confession that you are made right with God. Will you accept Jesus today? He can’t wait to hear your voice say this prayer.
Dear God, I confess that I am a sinner, and for that I’m sorry. I need You as my Lord and Savior; I know I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to forgive my sins so that I may have eternal life. I believe on the third day He rose from the grave and conquered death and sin’s hold on me. I turn from doing things my way where I am controlled by my sinful nature. I ask You, Lord Jesus, to forgive me. Make me new. Come into my life and into my heart; lead me in everything I do. I trust You. I love You. I choose to live for You each and every day. Thank You for Your love. And thank You, Jesus, for saving me. Amen.
Precious One, You are so Loved! Please share the Good News! Hosanna!
