No Ordinary Day…..Yet No One Could Have Known

It was an early Sunday morning in Jerusalem.  Under the risen sun and clear blue sky Jews and Gentiles crowded the streets awaiting this man they hoped would be their new king, the one who’d end the ongoing wars and usher in peace at last.  Folks were carrying Palms to welcome this long awaited king.  Can you hear the crowds?  ”Our king is coming!  Peace at last (the way we want it). Hosanna to the Son of David." The Jews had celebrated their Sabbath the day before and were busy preparing for the coming Feast of Passover as God had commanded.  Each year they recalled how God had brought them out of slavery. Each year just as strangers were invited to the Passover table so none would go without, one empty chair would be placed at the table for Elijah.  Could this man be their Messiah?  Had God finally answered their prayers?   Palms now held high, waving in the air would soon be laid to cushion the pebbled dirt road for this long awaited king, this man who called himself “I AM”.  Look!  Here comes; Jesus is perched on a donkey just like royalty, with his disciples following as servants would a king.  Clamorous excitement fills the air.  Jesus is here to celebrate the Passover feast!  Afterwards, as the Jews went about preparing their homes, the Gentiles got ready for a new week. No one knew or ever suspected the turn of events about to happen. Not even the one who would betray him or those who sought to kill him knew. No, not even the disciples. Their plans were taking shape for the present. As I envision the crowds, listening to the rumble and praises, I find myself wondering, ‘What thoughts were going through Jesus’ mind as he saw the crowds and understood their desires?’.  This man on a donkey knew why he was there. He had come for a reason far beyond anything one could have imagined.  The Eve of Passover would soon be here. A cup of wine and loaf of unleavened bread would soon be shared.  The accusations and his death would soon come.  Jesus knew.  He knew. He had come to celebrate his Last Supper with his disciples and then offer his life for all people. He knew his life would be sacrificed as the ultimate gift of God's Grace and Mercy. The mystery of these days was yet to unfold. Today the mystery of these days still leaves me in awe!   What will I do this Holy Week as I prepare to share this Last Supper, as I prepare to remember Jesus death, as I prepare to celebrate His resurrection?  God of Grace and Mercy, this year as I walk through this Holy Week of remembrance, I pray for your Steadfast Hope and Peace around the world, in our homes, and in my heart. May the Celebrations of this Palm Sunday and the coming Passover Last Supper remind you of God’s Steadfast Hope as you journey through this Holy Week. In Christ, Shalom,  Susan