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Matthew 21: 8-10 (NIV)
A very large crowd
spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and
spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that
followed shouted, “. . . Hosanna in the highest!” When Jesus entered Jerusalem,
the whole city was stirred . . .”
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| In great revivals of religion it is almost impossible to prevent wild-fire from getting in amongst the true fire.* |
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It
was 2012 and President Obama had made an afternoon campaign appearance in our
town, Kissimmee, Florida. We were happy to leave the traffic jam behind as we
headed up to Orlando for a get-together with my husband’s university alumni
group. We began to suspect that something was afoot when we started seeing
state troopers and deputy sheriffs stationed at major intersections. By the
time we got in sight of our destination, hundreds of motorcycle cops and big
black SUVs were swarming all the entrances to the strip center we were heading
for. Yes, folks. Of all the restaurants and bars in Orlando, Florida, President
Obama decided to have a beer at the one where our event was being held.
As
we stood behind the yellow tape separating us from the president’s entourage,
there was lots of excitement among those in the crowd. Everyone was hoping for
a look at our country’s leader. Once we were cleared to go inside the
restaurant, all the buzz was about the president’s surprise visit and hardly anyone
was discussing politics. It was just entertainment.
While I am not making comparisons between Jesus and Barak Obama, there are
similarities between the two crowds:
Even
in Jesus’ day, people celebrated the celebrity, not necessarily what he stood
for. Many shouted, “Hosanna in the highest!” because everyone else did. Among
any crowd of worshipers you will find some who are there just for the thrill of
the moment. There will be some genuine believers, but many of those will lose
their enthusiasm and will not be around to serve the Lord when they are needed.
The true followers will still be walking along with Jesus after the parade is
over.
Jesus
knew that his celebrity status was hollow and temporary. He didn’t need it in
order for him to become a worldwide sensation. He only needed twelve faithful
followers to start a movement that could not be stopped. Today, he is not a
rock star looking for a posse; he is the Rock of Ages seeking those few who are
willing to walk the unpopular path with him.
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| Jesus never confused the adoration of men or the posture and prestige of social status with real power.* |
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