Lent
March 28, 2015

Scripture Reading: John 12:12-16

The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting,
‘Hosanna!
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord—
   the King of Israel!’
Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it; as it is written:
‘Do not be afraid, daughter of Zion.
Look, your king is coming,
   sitting on a donkey’s colt!’ — John 12:12-15

The time had come. We have all been there whether it was getting ready for a wedding or a funeral, preparing for a family reunion, or graduating from school. There may be a few last minute runs for more food or a quick wash when a child appears with food all over but the day is finally here.

I have wondered what Jesus thought as he rode through the masses. We know that he had sat looking down over Jerusalem and said: ‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!’ (Matthew 23:37) That ride into Jerusalem must have been heart rending. The people are still so innocent, still so lacking in understanding. Had he prepared them enough?

As followers of Christ we are continually preparing to live our love to show mercy to do justice, but all our preparations do not mean a think unless we initiate and act. We may never feel ready but we will learn along the way and we are never alone as we journey toward the Kingdom of God.

Prayer:
God of grace and God of glory,
 On Thy people pour Thy power.
 Crown Thine ancient church’s story,
 Bring her bud to glorious flower.
 Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,
 For the facing of this hour,
 For the facing of this hour.* Amen.

*From God of Grace and God of Glory by Harry E. Fosdick
All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of American. Used by permission. All rights reserved.