SATURDAY 4.1.23: Jesus, the Righteous King – Luke 19:29-48
Jesus’ long journey (which began in Luke 9:51) ended as he entered Jerusalem. He very deliberately entered in a way that echoed history (cf. 1 Kings 1:32-39) and prophecy (Zechariah 9:9-10). His entry said he symbolically claimed kingship, but peacefully. He wept over the city, and his tears showed that he loved the city’s people. But he also wept because their heedless leaders did not love him.
Reflection
• The prophet Zechariah said a righteous king would ride on a donkey’s colt to offer peace and salvation to the people. How did Luke hint that Jesus pre-arranged his ride into Jerusalem to fulfill that prophecy (verses 31-34)? Who sang and praised Jesus (verses 37-39)? Who disliked his entrance into the holy city (verse 47)? Would you more likely have been with “the establishment” who didn’t want their orderly status quo upset, or with the upstart rabbi from Galilee?
Prayer: Loving Lord, when you were born, Jerusalem ignored the news. When you came to the city, it’s leaders still didn’t welcome you. Lord, I open my heart—I want to make room for you in my life, always. Amen.