Entering Jerusalem

Palm Sunday, April 1 – Read Luke 19:29-48

Jesus enters Jerusalem on the colt of a donkey in fulfillment of a prophecy of Zechariah. His disciples and other followers offer praise to him and spread their cloaks on the road. The Pharisees, who consider him a dangerous lawbreaker, ask Jesus to silence the praises. But he responds, “If my followers were silent, the very stones would shout.” Going closer, Jesus weeps for Jerusalem, realizing that its citizens do not recognize the time of God’s visitation and do not know the things that make for peace. Then when he enters the temple, he goes to the court where animals are sold for sacrifice and foreign currency is exchanged. He drives out the sellers saying, “God’s house is to be a house of prayer, but you have made it a robber’s den!” This would be the equivalent of taking over a part of the U.S. Capitol. It cannot be tolerated by the religious authorities in charge, but for a time they are stymied by the admiration of many who are in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. So they look for an opportunity to kill him.

Reflection Questions: How do you recognize the presence of God as it is revealed in the world around you? How do you believe God creates the total peace of shalom to which Jesus refers?

Prayer: Dear God, give me eyes to see and wisdom to comprehend your presence and your peace. Amen.