Whom Do You Seek - Easterنموونە

I love going to the footy (British football). I especially love the start of the game when my team enters the stadium and runs out onto the field – the club song plays, the supporters cheer, and there is a feeling of tension, anticipation, celebration and optimism about what the team will achieve on the day. There is hope of a sweet victory at the end of the game.

Imagine being in the crowd on that Palm Sunday when Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. Indeed, there was a sense of anticipation and celebration – the long-prophesied king had arrived! He had come to overthrow the Roman oppressors and rule Israel – and the world – with peace and righteousness. Waving their palm leaves, the crowds were certain that victory was at hand.

Yet, the way to victory was not what anyone in that crowd expected, not even the disciples. The way to victory was through obedience to the will of God and would be won through suffering and ultimately, death.

When we trust in Jesus, the Messiah and King, this is our journey too. We know that He is victorious in our lives and our hearts can gladly call out “Hosannah, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord”, celebrating with joy!

As we follow the path of Jesus we should not be surprised when our journey is also marked with suffering. We too need to be willing to die to our own will and desires, knowing that we can look forward to the eternal Palm Sunday when Christ will come to live and reign forever – when we are in that great multitude holding palm branches and crying out: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne.”

That will be worth cheering for!

Today, ponder this: How can you be declaring the victory of Jesus today? Spend some time in prayer, thanking Jesus for His ultimate victory over sin and death in your life.