John Speaks!

Some people come because of all the “feels” that commercialism, with the constant playing of classic Christmas songs, brings to hearts…so you will buy their products. Some might come to see how the church will gift them. Some people come from other churches to see a performance and judge to see if it was better than what their church has to offer.

I think about this as I read and study the crowd who welcomed Jesus into the city of Jerusalem. They shouted praises and blessings to Jesus. Some came to see what He would miraculously do next. Jesus was impressive…as a man, many thought. Some came out of curiosity to see the One everyone was talking about…who raised Lazarus from the dead. The religious elite watched in fear. Jesus knew all their hearts. He knew why they came to see him.

Jesus, accused of destroying The Law, came fulfilling God’s Word in every detail…riding on a donkey’s colt. The disciples did not understand at that moment what was going on but they would “get it” later. Jesus knew that God was still in control of the entire mission.
But for right now, “Everyone has gone after Him!”
John 12, New Living Translation
Jesus’ Triumphant Entry
12 The next day, the news that Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A large crowd of Passover visitors 13 took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted,

Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hail to the King of Israel!”
14 Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said:
15 “Don’t be afraid, people of Jerusalem.
Look, your King is coming,
riding on a donkey’s colt.”


HOLY PAUSE

What is our reason for joining the crowds going after Jesus?
Are we merely impressed with Jesus?
Do we worship songs about Him or worship Him?
Feelings change. God does not.
After Christmas is over and all the red and green stuff is put back in the attic, will we still go after Him, the King of kings and Lord of lords with all that is in us?
Oh Lord, help us to be victorious this season as we seek you with all our hearts, minds and souls. To you be all glory. Our lives, saved because of You, now belong to You. Yes, I’m going after you because life is all about You! Teach me. Transform me. Keep me focused on You because my life depends on it!
In Jesus Name, Amen. I believe.