April 5 , 2009

Christ has not only spoken to us by his life but has also spoken for us by his death.
Søren Kierkegaard

Some people called it a parade; others say it was a funeral processional.

That’s the way it is about expectations - everybody sees something different in Jesus and everybody wants something different from Jesus.

No matter what version you may have of Jesus… He is so much more.

The large crowd on Palm Sunday in Jerusalem for the Passover celebration loved Jesus because he was their miracle man, and they were eager for more of the same.

The Pharisees were always in fear their way of life might be absorbed into the Greek-influenced culture. By their emphasis on the many details that kept them distinctively Jewish, they wanted a Jesus of rules and rituals.

The radical, nationalistic Zealots wanted a Jesus of force, one who was ready to overthrow the Roman government machine.

There were hopes he would take up a sword and call his followers to arms. They wanted a military Jesus.

The Disciples were hoping this would be their greatest week of popularity and glory.

All these people gained a glimpse of Jesus of Nazareth on this day that begins Holy Week. Each had their viewpoint.

Many were excited because they were finally getting the Messiah of their dreams and expectations.

They were wrong.

Underneath those Palm Sunday cloaks were, as one writer/theologian puts it, “the seeds of crucifixion.”

By Good Friday Jesus had disappointed so many. But he never disappointed God.

What kind of Jesus are you looking for?