This weekend, we come to the crux of the matter. Holy Week begins with a grand parade as we watch our Lord and Savior triumphantly enter into the ancient holy city of his ancestors. Jerusalem. That light on a hill meant to shine for all the world to see.
And as he passes by, carried by a donkey, foretold by the prophets, the people cry “Hosanna!” which means “Save us!” They lay down not only palm branches at his feet, but also their coats and cloaks, as so many have done for royalty for thousands of years. They see the heir of David arriving in the holy city and expect that now is the time that the revolution will begin!
But within days, we see the true Light that enlightens all peoples’ hearts cast out of the city and put to death in a way considered cursed by God’s people. God’s salvation is put down. Hard.
And there we stand at his feet, watching the blood flow. All our hopes and dreams go with it.
At his feet. The feet of a king upon his throne – for the cross is Christ’s coronation, even if his disciples and followers do not know it yet.
Remember that there is no empty tomb without first gathering at his feet. And that is what we will do this week.
Through all that we will encounter, remember two things: first, yes, all is done for love of the whole world, including you and me. For this is Love incarnate stretched out to show how far love will go. But second, we are still responsible for what occurs in the ways we treat every fellow human being, every child of God we see – for all bear the face of Christ by his own word.
Meditate on that as we gather at his feet. See what message our crucified Lord has for you this week.
Blessings, Pastor Janie
First Welcoming All 