As Jesus rode into Jerusalem, the crowds waved palm branches, a symbol of Jewish nationalism which is still practiced today.

The people were shouting cheering, praising, exalting Jesus and were certain He was “THE king” the LEADER… sent to deal a blow to the current oppressive rulers. But then something happened. All of their cheering stopped. Why?

Jesus didn’t gather and command any troops to create and overthrow.

He didn’t lead a revolt.

He didn’t do what they expected him to do!

Instead, He drove the money-changers out of the temple. With a whip!

Risky behavior…

He taught that giving out of poverty is worth more than giving out of abundance. He taught that in order to be great, you must be a servant.

Jesus did and said everything the people DIDN’T want, and so they stopped cheering.

It’s amazing that when things go our way, when God does what we want, when Jesus validates our cause; it’s so easy to cheer! But what about when He doesn’t do these things?

What happens when you face oppression?

What happens when you experience troubles, betrayal, harsh words, being used, being dismissed, trashed, shamed, punished or persecuted?

Sadly, and even too often, the cheering comes to a stop. Words of adoration, honor and praise quickly fade when you face life as it really is.

It’s very important to realize that our culture may not be exactly the same as when Jesus entered the cheering crowd that day, the times are not the same historically, but applying and taking to heart these things in today’s time is of extreme importance.

Sometimes God doesn’t give us what we want, but it’s very wise to understand that he always gives us what we need. It’s just that sometimes when we experience a little problem, very often, our wants and desires blur our vision to our real needs.

The same thing happened to the crowds that packed the roadway to cheer Jesus.
There were some things that they didn’t see, but Jesus did. He saw what they were thinking and wept!

He knew they were being blinded by a desire to see the evil doers around them be wiped out and then oppression would cease, because SURELY this was God’s man, sent to do it! After all, look at the miracles he has done! He is our ticket to a better life! (Sounds oddly familiar doesn’t it?)

Why did Jesus weep instead of receive the praise and adoration loudly echoing from the crowd?

Read His account of why, and let it be good food for heart-searching meditation. Let’s not let His current “dealings and presence” in our lives be cast aside for easier or more forceful options and miss His life shaking and changing visitation.

“When the city came into view, he wept over it and said,
‘If you had only recognized this day, and everything that was good for you!
But now it’s too late.
In the days ahead your enemies are going to bring up their heavy artillery and surround you, pressing in from every side. They’ll smash you and your babies on the pavement. Not one stone will be left intact. All this because you didn’t recognize and welcome God’s personal visit.’” Luke 19:41-44 MSG.

 

In His Shadow,
~ Mary Lindow ^©

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” THE MESSENGER ” ~ Mary Lindow
www.marylindow.com
Global Prayer Rooms

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Mary Lindow has a passion for encouraging others – all generations, careers or vocations to live expressing excellence through personal integrity, healthy accountability, and wise management of talents and skills. She’s a sought after keynote, inspirational, humorous speaker and teacher across the USA and internationally in Ministers & Spiritual leaders Conferences, and training seminars for various organizations.

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