The
world’s eyes were once again focused on Israel (barley larger than the state of
New Jersey,) as the election outcome of their prime minister posed a potential threat
to the peace of Jerusalem.
On
a mission of peace Jesus, the Prince of
Peace rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. Voices having shouted loud Hosanna’s
were now absorbed in the bustling city overflowing with Passover pilgrims. The
Temple was over-run with merchants auctioning animals for Passover sacrifice.
Jesus
knowing what was to come wept over the lost opportunity for peace for the
people. They had not understood his mission; they would have none of this humble messiah. Missing God’s
moment they careened on a course that led to destruction by the Romans 70 years
later. Jesus, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Isaiah had all prophetically wept - “oh
virgin Israel, return to the Lord!” Jeremiah 31:4
The planning for His mission had begun long ago. Now everything was ready.
“You understand of course that this is entirely voluntary” a deep voice
began. He looked around one last time. His home was a place of light, warmth
and beauty. He loved it here, but he must go and save them.
“They won’t receive you well; in fact,
they will consider you a troublemaker. They love their own ways too much to
change.” He nodded; “but some are eagerly waiting for me,” he said, smiling.
They approached the chasm and felt a cold draft. It was dark over there
and noisy; shouts of anger, screams of pain, moans of despair. “They are so far
away,” he remarked. “Because of you, they can be made near,” his father
replied.
He stepped across. For a while it was still and black. Then he saw a
feeble light, and it hurt his eyes. He cried - a lonely, wailing sound. “Mary
you have a son, just as the angel said you would.” And he was wrapped in
swaddling clothes and laid in a manager.
(The Mission, Pacheco
Pyle)
