The Journey to the Cross (Day 2 - Swayed)


Swayed - 

Yesterday was Palm Sunday - a day I used to love as a little girl.

I loved the fact that each person got one long palm frond as they walked into the service.  I loved waving my frond around (admittedly sometimes instead of paying attention to the service).  I loved the thought of Jesus riding into town on the back of a donkey (I can still remember the “Little Gray Donkey” song I sang as part of the children’s choir).  And I loved making my palm into a little cross on the car ride home. 

However, I did NOT love the readings.

For in them, the crowd quickly went from one which lined the streets to welcome Jesus, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!  Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matthew 21:9), to one standing below Pilate, demanding the release of Barabbas while shouting “Cruicify Him!” (Matthew 27:22, Mark 15:13, Luke 23:21) when asked what to do with Jesus.

I think it speaks to the fickle nature of humans; to our “mob mentality” and our ability to be swayed by others.  But God doesn’t want that.

Hosea 10:2 says, “The hearts of people are fickle; they are guilty and must be punished. The LORD will break down their altars and smash their sacred pillars.”

God demands that we not be puppets or robots, led around by others (or Satan).

“Don’t be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.” - Psalm 32:9

He says we should not be wishy washy, flip flopping with the whims of the crowd.

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’, ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” - Matthew 5:37

God wants us to use the brains He gave us, and to seek His guidance whenever we need it. 

“The beginning of wisdom is this:  Get wisdom.  Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” - Proverbs 4:7

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” - James 1:5

I believe Jesus will come again, and that before He does, Satan will work to pull many away from Christ.  I’m praying that at the end of it all, we will continue to stand firm, waving our fronds and welcoming our King. 

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