48 THE PRINCE OF PEACE F O O T ================================

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READING

48 THE PRINCE OF PEACE

PRAY Help me to see things clearly today as I read your word, dear Father. —————————————————————- READ Luke 19:28-48. —————————————————————- THINK Write down four things that this passage teaches you about Jesus. —————————————————————- FOCUS RIDING ON AN ASS (28-40). Jesus knew there was a price on his head, but he still went up to Jerusalem and entered the city in such a way that everyone could know he was there. Read verses 35-38 again and try to imagine the scene. What did the crowd of disciples shout out (38)? When an ancient monarch rod into a city on an ass, it signified that he came in peace. He rode on a horse if he entered at a time of war. Jesus, by riding on an ass, entered Jerusalem as the Prince of Peace and fulfilled the prophecy about Zion’s king in Zechariah 9:9. WEEPING OVER THE CITY (41-44). Jesus was never afraid to show his feelings. He is truly man and truly God. He feels with us and understands the problems we face. The sight of Jerusalem made Jesus weep (42-44). God had spoken to its inhabitants many times through kings and prophets. Now the promised Messiah was there. She was going to reject him, and inevitable calamity would come upon her. CASTING FROM THE TEMPLE (45,46). Money changers used the temple area, probably the court of the Gentiles. they made huge profits and they made it harder for people (especially poor people) to worship God. Jesus would not tolerate that. TEACHING THE PEOPLE (47,48). Even with the threat of death hanging over him Jesus still had time for people. His love meant that he would rather teach them than protect himself. —————————————————————— PRAY All glory, praise and honour to thee, redeemer, king, to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring. (Theodulph of Orleans AD821).