Into Jerusalem

When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus. 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!” His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written of him and had been done to him. So the crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to testify. It was also because they heard that he had performed this sign that the crowd went to meet him. The Pharisees then said to one another, “You see, you can do nothing. Look, the world has gone after him!” John 12:9-19

Jesus was entering the holy city which for him was a den of lions. The religious leadership had lost their authority since he had raised Lazarus and they were seeing blood. They wanted and needed to bring him down. We have seen how bloodthirsty people can get when they believe they are right. We all hate it when we are sure we are right and others challenge us. Jesus entered into that very human struggle with humility and compassion. May we begin this Holy Week likewise, with humility and compassion.

O Creator, timeless and present

we are a divided and hurting people

we lash out when others disagree

come be with us, we pray today.

The signs of hate and cruelty

surround us and divide us

help us to cling to your love

and live like you with humility.

We venture into this Holy Week

tired, timid and with many cares

you took our burdens on the cross

help us to walk these days with love. Amen.