Isaiah 50:4-9a
Philippians 2:5-11
Matthew 26:14- 27:66
Psalm 31:9-16
The long Matthew lesson for today covers the arrest and trial of Jesus. You may see my comments in the Read Through the New Testament section by doing a search for Matthew 24-28.
But this is Palm Sunday, so go back to Matthew 19-23 and read the comments on chapter 21.
Psalm 31 gives us an account of the life of Jesus. I am in distress. I am the dread of my friends. They plot to take my life.
Isaiah has a similar account. I offered my back to those who beat me. But he offers victory in the end. It is the Sovereign Lord who helps me.
There were times in Jesus’ ministry when the crowds following him numbered in the tens of thousands. His entry into Jerusalem was roaring with praise. His Apostles knew he was the Messiah and were no doubt eager for him to march to the palace and claim the throne. Imagine their surprise when he went to the Temple instead and tried to clear out the market. Talk about asking to be executed.
Palm Sunday is misleading. The crowds loved what Jesus did for them. The wanted and needed to be healed, so they followed a healer. But they did not understand what it meant to follow. Jesus acted the substance of following on Friday. He expects obedience in all ways, even to death.
In this world, a follower cannot expect to live in a palace, but must always do those inconvenient things that upset many, yet help the needy.
Be righteous and do good.
Mike Lawrence