Jesus is Coming
The gospel for this coming Sunday (First Sunday in Advent) is Matthew 21:1-11. This is the narrative of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.
As we begin the season of Advent we find some comparisons and contrasts between our text and Advent.
There was careful planning on the part of Jesus as he was about to enter Jerusalem. Advent is meant to be used by us for the coming of Jesus at Christmas time.
Jesus entered Jerusalem in great humility by riding on a donkey’s colt. After all the miracles and powerful teaching he had done, Jesus easily could have come riding in on a powerful steed. His birth was also marked by great meekness by being born in barn.
There was great anticipation by that crowd. They had just witnessed the raising of Lazarus and were up for more, possibly the overthrow of Rome. This time before Christmas also brings with it huge eagerness of wonderful gifts and super celebrations.
There was a great amount noise surrounding the entry of Jerusalem just there is in the hustle and bustle in the world around us. In the case of the Palm Sunday event, it soon turned sour and some of the crowd cried out for Jesus’s death. So it is with many around us when expectations are not met.
As we begin Advent, we need to humble ourselves in true repentance. It will help us to be ready for this Christ child. It will us focus on the perfect ministry that this Son of God will accomplish for us. The people were excited because Jesus had raised Lazarus. We can be even more thrilled that Jesus was raised from his death on Easter. That allows us to celebrate all the way into eternity.
Prayer: Lord, Thank you for coming to earth and bringing great joy and salvation. Thank you for your unending blessings. Amen
