By Rev. Pete Hyde
It had been almost three years since the small band of followers had aligned themselves with this wandering teacher and healer. Many of them left their livelihoods and families to follow him. There was something different about him, almost strange. They saw so much in these three short years. They were his closest friends and followers and yet they still did not completely understand who he was or who he claimed to be. Yes, they had their moments of deep belief. But they also had their times of serious doubting. They witnessed the healings, heard him preach and teach, witnessed the debates with the authorities, saw him walk on the water and marveled when he fed more than five thousand with a few loaves and fishes.
He told them more than once it was time for him to complete his mission and he would have to go away. They just did not understand. Now his face and mind were set on Jerusalem. There seemed to be something drawing him there other than the celebration of the Passover Feast. There was something in his eyes that told them this trip to Jerusalem was more important than the others. As they approached the city, he became more intense, more focused on his mission.
The news spread to Jerusalem that the one of whom the prophets spoke was coming into the city to free them from Roman occupation and to become their long-awaited king. They lined the street as the small band entered the city. They had done this many times before as others who claimed to be the anointed one came into the city. The crowds had been disappointed many times before, but maybe, just maybe, this would be “the one.” Maybe, just maybe – they could only hope and pray. They waved their palm branches in a patriotic display that would rival any 4th of July celebration. They laid their cloaks in front of him to pay homage to the coming king. They shouted “Hosanna” to express their longing to be freed from the Roman occupation of their country. The band of followers became more and more confused about what they had gotten themselves into.
They retreated from the city that evening. He stood on the mount and wept for Jerusalem and what would have to happen there for him to complete his mission. They would reenter the city in the morning for the beginning of the end – at least here on earth. His heart was heavy. He would “be led like a lamb to the slaughter” without resistance. He would plead with his Father to take the cup of death from Him, but he would follow his Father’s will, even to death upon the cross.
The journey of Holy Week begins. It is a journey to the cross and an ultimate journey to resurrection and new life. Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, take time each day to contemplate the journey of Holy Week. It is outlined in the Gospel of Luke, chapters 19 through 23. Take time each day this week to read what happened during the week that changed the world. Attend services this week that will help you fully experience the events of Holy Week. What happened there happened for you.
Rev. Pete Hyde serves as chaplain with the South Walton Fire District.
Author: Sowal Editor
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