Reflection
We are back with the multitude who appreciate Jesus, who can see the good that he does. They welcome him to Jerusalem. Sometimes preachers call them fickle and say the same people called for Barabbas on Good Friday. But maybe it was a different crowd. Those who appreciate Jesus welcome him, those who follow the Chief Priests condemn him.
Can I see the good that Jesus does? Can I follow his difficult teachings, his demanding way?
Today’s Prayer
Preparation: Begin by stilling; then dedicating the time of prayer to God and asking God that all you think, feel and imagine are for the glory of God.
Gift: Ask for what you desire. Suggestion: To know Jesus more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.
Setting: A Scripture reading to imagine you are in the scene.
Scripture
Matthew 21:1-11 WEB
When they came near to Jerusalem and came to Bethsphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village that is opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me.
If anyone says anything to you, you shall say,
‘The Lord needs them,’ and immediately he will send them.”
All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through the prophet, saying,
“Tell the daughter of Zion,
behold, your King comes to you,
humble, and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
The disciples went and did just as Jesus commanded them, and brought the donkey and the colt and laid their clothes on them; and he sat on them.
A very great multitude spread their clothes on the road. Others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The multitudes who went in front of him, and those who followed, kept shouting, “Hosanna to the son of David!
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
When he had come into Jerusalem, all the city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?”
The multitudes said, “This is the prophet, Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.”
Conversation: Talk to Jesus in your own words as a friend
Final Prayer: End with a formal prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer/Our Father.
Today’s Music
Hosanna to the Son of David: Orlando Gibbons, sung by Voices of the Ascension