When Jesus entered into Jerusalem He was surrounded by the praises of his disciples.  "Blessed the Coming One, the King, in the name of the Lord!  In heaven peace, and glory in the highest!"  There was great celebration and joy as the disciples worshiped Jesus laying their cloaks before him.  For the King of glory had come, humble and riding on a donkey.

 

But when Jesus' entered into Jerusalem on Palm  Sunday, not everyone was shouting His praises and glorifying God.  There were Pharisees and others who had rejected him in his ministry who rebuked Jesus' disciples.  Having refused to believe in him, they were now actively opposed to him and trying to silence the disciples praises.  But Jesus rebuked them and warned them.  If the disciples were prevented from announcing his arrival and glorifying him, even stones would announce it for them.  These very stones which have no life in them, would announce Jesus' coming and shout his glory if the disciples would not.

 

Those who refuse to worship Jesus still have time to repent and believe in the Good News of His love and mercy.  When Jesus came into Jerusalem, he came to bring the blessings of the Kingdom of God.  Among these blessings is the peace that comes from heaven.  The peace that surpasses all human understanding.  Jesus comes to Jerusalem to bring peace with God, pardon for sin, joy of our salvation and assurance that He will answer our prayers.  This peace is a gift of God created by His Holy Spirit in our hearts in our baptism.  And this peace that removes fear and guilt on account of Jesus' sacrifice and rules in our hearts and minds, is sure to continue.  For Jesus, who comes in the name of the Lord, comes with great glory and great might.  And he has promised to come again to bring us into our eternal rest with Him in heaven.  As we worship the Lord  this Sunday, the coming one, the King, fill our hearts with his peace, and may our praises be heard by Him who saved us.

 

Pastor James L Kroonblawd

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