Issue 702 – Arches – April 2, 2022
There is something about archways made of trees that I like. They feel almost mystical, like tunnels into a different reality. There is almost a sense of never knowing what you will find at the other end of a long arch.
The other day, I was thinking about arches and remembered Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem six days before the Passover feast.
Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.” Matthew 21:8-11
The crowd was ecstatic about the King. They celebrated wildly and welcomed Jesus like a conquering military hero.
Yet, a few days later, the sentiments had changed, and the tide had turned.
Pilate then called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither did Herod, for he sent him back to us. Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him. I will therefore punish and release him.” But they all cried out together, “Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas”— a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!”
Luke 23:13-21
Welcomed as a king and vilified as the lowest possible criminal in just days. Jesus had not changed. His message remained the same.
The crowd wasn’t interested in someone who could save them from their sins and restore them into a relationship with God. They wanted a king who would drive the Romans out. They went from adoration to hatred in very short order.
The crowds are no less fickle today. You can go from hero to zero in no time. Today’s fan favourite is yesterday’s has been. That’s true in politics, entertainment and even the church sometimes.
The masses will not stay pleased because the things they seek can never satisfy them. They have no sense of long-term commitment and can turn into a mob at a moment’s notice.
Our true hope and ultimate satisfaction are found in Christ. He will never reject His followers.
Jesus never changes. He loves us so much that He gave His life for us, enduring not just human pain but the very wrath of God. He continues to intercede for us even now.
When believers cross the final archway into glory, there will be elements that will surprise us. We cannot picture it all yet. The Lord in glory will not disappoint us.
We may stumble along the way, but He will not turn away. Unlike the fickle crowds, He will not reject His own but welcome us with open arms.
That is a reason to celebrate.
Hallelu Yah (Praise God)
Be blessed.
Kevin.
Gleanings From The Word.
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (for the glory of God alone.)
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the English Standard Version (ESV). Spelling modified to Canadian English as required.
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