On the other side

Werecently had opportunity to again visit the Wesley Woodland Walk on SaintSimons Island across the road from Christ Church. John Wesley was rector of thechurch’s first congregation back when James Oglethorpe came to settle Georgiaat Fort Frederica. And for that reason, a garden has been developed in the areain Wesley’s memory. I love the way the garden is structured with a cross beingthe centerpiece. As I study the photo, I took from the end of the walkway lookingtoward the cross, dappled light falls across the path. It makes me think maybeJesus entered Jerusalem on a light dappled path amidst palm waving and shoutsof hosanna. And yet, Jesus knew the cross was before him. It was his destiny.It was the reason he came. More than anyone, he knew what was coming.

ThisSunday we will once more celebrate Palm Sunday by singing hosanna, wavingpalms, and remembering the fateful day before his crucifixion when Jesusentered Jerusalem. Upset over the joyful welcome Jesus received, the Phariseesadmonished him to rebuke his disciples for their behavior, but Jesus said, “Itell you, …  if they keep quiet, thestones will cry out” (Luke 19:39).

Thecelebration had to take place. And yet, the crucifixion stood between PalmSunday and Easter Sunday.

Yes,Jesus knew what was coming. But He also knew what was on the other side.

Theapostle Paul wrote it this way, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author andperfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross,scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”(Hebrews 12:2). For the joy set before him, Jesus endured the horror ofcrucifixion so that we may have eternal life. He saw the cross, but more than thathe saw the joy of what would happen after. He saw us.

Aren’twe so grateful to live on the joy side of those moments in history?

Thefolks waving the palms that day in Jerusalem expected a king of a differentsort, but we may celebrate knowing that Jesus is the King of all Kings and Lordof all Lords.

So,let’s not let any rocks cry out for us, let’s grab those palms and shout ourown hosannas. We have much to shout about.

Hosanna!!!

 

 

 

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