easter
Resource compiled by the Joint Liturgical Group
of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland
Easter (8th April - 16th May)
They brought the colt to Jesus, threw their cloaks on it and put Jesus on it. As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
"Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"
"I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Luke 19: 35-40 (TNIV)
Jesus' very public entrance into Jerusalem was a moment of joy, celebration and rebuke
This was a moment of recognition for those who had followed Jesus and one of rejection by the authorities. The reality of who Jesus is may be argued, disliked, ignored or rejected, but whether we like it or not, it doesn't change the truth, the reality that he is the Messiah, the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the bringer and source of restoration and peace. If people choose not to speak out this truth even inanimate stones will declare who he is.
Invited or uninvited, recognised or unrecognised, "bidden or unbidden, God is present" in the person of Jesus. At this Eastertide may we recognise and celebrate with joy the King who comes in the name of the Lord.
Prayer
Colt riding Christ,
May we be numbered among those who recognise you as the Sent One -
the King who comes in the name of Lord to bring peace and restoration, healing and mercy.
Remind us that through your life, death and resurrection we can know your presence at all times, in all circumstances.
May our words and actions reflect this wonderful Easter reality.
In the name of the Creator, Christ and Counsellor,
Amen
(Quote C Jung)
