Nothing about the entrance of Jesus into this world and his ensuing life happened as expected. In fact, the world was largely caught unawares. Jesus came in an unexpected way. He grew up in an out of the way city and stepped into his ministry in an unlikely place.
An Unexpected Life
We see this trademark throughout Jesus’ life and death. He didn’t fit into the box that the religious leaders thought he should. Jesus came with compassion not indifference. He came and made a difference. It was with a quiet display of his power, not a flaunting exhibition. Moreover, Jesus came with a mission of redemption, not a quest of destruction.
Unfailing love for mankind marked Jesus’ ministry. When the crowd pushed away the blind beggar along the road, Jesus beckoned him near. Both the leprous outcasts and the ruler of the synagogue found hope and acceptance at the hands of Jesus. It was with sinners that Jesus found friendship. On the other hand dissension was a marked aspect of Jesus interaction with the religious leaders of that day.
As Passover celebration approached, the unexpected happened even here. Shouts of praise filled the streets as Jesus triumphantly rode through the streets of Jerusalem, proclaiming through the fulfillment of prophecy that he indeed was the Messiah. It was with definitive action and not inconclusive activity that we find Jesus clearing the temple of defilement.
On the other hand, it was with quiet movements that Jesus returned to Bethany after that first Palm Sunday, instead of overthrowing the Roman government. After that triumphal entry, the crowds expected deliverance from their hated tormentors. Instead, it seemed like Jesus’ turned his back on the glaring heartache of his country. The One whom they expected to save them had turned away. Little did they realize that Jesus had come to save them, just not in the way they had expected.
An Overcoming Power
As we walk through the days leading up to the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, open your heart to see God’s hand in the unexpected, yes, even in the unwanted. Quiet your heart in the midst of the chaos of the week and hear his whispered promises of grace. Moreover, find him nearer than ever before as you accept life from his hands.
Life will have many unanticipated circumstances. In fact, Jesus reminded his disciples of this on the eve of his death.
In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
John 16:33
The distress, pressures and trials are all a part of this world. Don’t let it take you unaware, but be aware. Attend to the words of Jesus. Take to heart the words from the heart of God. Live with an obedient heart and an undivided loyalty to the God of heaven.
As we travel around the bend and leave the triumphant parade of Palm Sunday behind and travel toward the dark of Calvary’s hill let’s prepare our hearts for the unexpected love for mankind that Jesus portrays throughout this Holy Week.
Grasp the gift that Jesus extends to you through his sacrificial love on the cross. Accept his forgiveness and let Jesus change the trajectory of your life. Jesus has come to save us from sin and restore us into the image of God. Walk with him through the unexpected circumstances that may whirl around you. His overcoming power will bring victory. Pause and let God reorient your heart. Still your heart and embrace the life God has for you. Tether yourself to the Resurrected Savior.
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