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The Rejection of Jesus: A Historical Perspective
Yet, what if a familiar face appears, someone who should have a claim on us—a friend or relation carrying letters of greeting from a loved one or a son returned after years away? We would surely feel a duty to welcome such people, no matter the circumstances. In much the same way, when Jesus came to his own people, they did not accept him. The whole world is his, yet humanity, his own creation, still struggles to receive him.
Jesus’ Humble Entry
Isaiah prophesied about a King who would come riding humbly on a donkey. On that day in Jerusalem, the crowds recognized the fulfillment of this prophecy. They shouted with joy, recognizing Jesus as the King who came in the Lord’s name. They had high hopes and dreams for what his arrival meant: Was this the moment when Jesus would claim his throne and rule with justice and peace? We now know that their earthly hopes were disappointed. Jesus’ kingdom was not earthly; his victory was over sin and death, not Romans. His path to glory was through the cross.
Embracing the Christ of Holy Week
I often reflect on this truth: Jesus’ own people did not receive him, and I wonder how I am any different. Do I truly receive him? It is easy to say I do—after all, I accept him in baptism, communion, and fellowship. But am I ready to accept the Christ of Holy Week, with all that entails? I must be prepared to share in his sufferings symbolically, to embrace life’s trials as part of the redemptive sacrifice that Jesus made for us all.
Conquering Sin and Embracing Redemption
Accepting Jesus means readying myself to let him conquer sin within me. I often find myself shrinking from this task, more so than sharing in his symbolic pain. If Jesus is to reside in my heart fully, there are things I must clear out of it, allowing him to conquer and remove sin. Today, I proclaim with glad hosannas—Jesus has come to reign in our hearts. His throne is not of this world, yet he offers salvation and hope.
Conclusion: Let Us Reflect
As we move through Holy Week, I invite everyone to reflect on how we receive Jesus. We are called to journey with him, through the trials and triumph of Easter, to fully appreciate his sacrifice and victory. Let us open our hearts to him, clearing away that which holds us back, allowing his love to conquer all within. Thanks be to God for the gift of his Son.