(We come to our next stop on our road to Calvary.  The Triumphant Entry.  Palm Sunday.  Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, relishing the praises of the crowds; however, the Pharisees are still scheming behind the scenes.  Their jealousy is bursting, and they want Jesus gone.  Spoiler alert … In a week’s time, the same followers who shouted praises on this day will be calling for Jesus’ life.)

Being a Pharisee is not easy.  I work and strive all day long, memorizing scripture.  Praying.  Putting up with the silly debates that need to be addressed. 

The most ridiculous issue pushed to the forefront as of late is this man named Jesus of Nazareth.  I saw Him today.  How could you NOT have seen Him?  It was as if the entire world swarmed Jerusalem to shout His praises. 

Can you believe that?  Shouting praises to a man who claims to be the son of God?  Such blasphemy.  His popularity is rising amongst the people, much thanks to what He did recently.  There is word He raised His friend from the dead.  Some guy named Lazarus. 

Are you kidding me?  I seriously doubt this could ever happen, yet they all believe!  Swarms of people, all shouting His name when they should be celebrating the Passover.  I prayed about this today.  In the middle of the street corner to be exact.  For over an HOUR I prayed, asking God what to do about this man.

It was as if God was choosing to stay silent.  I don’t know what He wants, but I know what I want.  I want Jesus of Nazareth dead.  He soaked in His glory for too long.  His ridiculous lies must be stopped.  He got His glory today, but His legacy will end.  Soon.  My friends and I are already working on this plan.

Bathe in the beauty of their praises now, Jesus.  Enjoy your time now because time is so precious for You.  Your crowds don’t even know why they follow You, and Your lies will soon be exposed.  They will see the truth, and we can be VERY persuasive.

My prediction?  You will be dead in a week’s time.  No more lies.  No more preaching in the temple, taking our time away.  No more miracles.  No more answering my questions with your own questions.  You will be gone.  Wiped clean from this earth.  And your legacy will die with You. 

How pathetic You are, Jesus.  I refuse to fall into the trap that so many are ensnared in.  Your glory and fame that is so prevalent now will evaporate like a puff of smoke.  The Pharisees will get the last laugh. 

Wait and see.    

Bible study: Read John 12:12-19 and journal about or discuss the following questions …

1. How do you think Jesus felt as He was riding the donkey on Palm Sunday?  Was He relishing the praises or tormented by knowing His fate to come?  How would you feel if you were in His shoes?
2. Where were the hearts of the crowds praising Jesus?  Were they all in or just following the mob?  How could these people change from praising Jesus today to calling for His life in a week’s time?
3. How did jealousy play a role in the Pharisee’s perspective above?  Read Proverbs 14:30.  Answer this question citing thoughts based on this scripture. (Man, I sound like a teacher, don’t I?)
4. What jealousy is in your heart?  How is it affecting you?  What can you do to overcome it?

Bonus scripture:

• “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” (Romans 12:3)
• “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.” (James 3:16)
• “A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.” (Proverbs 14:30)

Video application: A week ago I went to see the first episode of The Chosen Season 5 in the theater, and people, it was SO worth it!  If this trailer doesn’t make you want to do the same, you are not alive!  It would be a wonderful way to get your heart ready for Easter. 

Just for fun: I think I have shared this every year, but it never gets old.  Enjoy watching Derwin Gray’s Easter Linebacker video.

Prayer: Lord, distinguish any jealousy You find in my heart today.  Let me be content no matter what the circumstances, and please ready my heart for Easter.  Amen.