So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with his disciples.
The Triumphal Entry. Palm Sunday. At least once a year Ive heard a sermon on this momentous event. More than a couple times I was preparing and preaching it myself. Ive read countless commentaries, articles, and web pages about it. There is so much richness, depth, and significance in every facet of the story. I dont think Ive ever heard or read anything that keyed in on the fact that this first day was actually a recon mission.
Think about it. Any Jew seeing Jesus come into town is recognizing the prophetic fulfillment of the Messiahs arrival. Any gentile watching thinks he is declaring himself a king. The timing is auspicious. The crowds are excited and cheering him on. The momentum is there so Jesus shows up, looks around, and leaves.
How often do I allow my actions to be determined by circumstances? How often have I done something earlier than planned, before Im prepared, or without being prayed up because I need to strike when the irons hot? Dont get me wrong, it is important to be strategic in my methods and means, but isnt it far more important to be led by and obedient to the Spirit?
Within a week Jesus really would step out as both Messiah and King. He stepped out as Messiah after a sleepless night, with the Jews screaming for his blood and the Romans literally torturing him to death. He revealed himself as the one true King after the whole world counted him out as dead and gone and only a few disreputable women even bothered to come pay their respects.
So what motivates my actions? Is it circumstance, or is it obedience?
