Intro: Our passage today follows Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He knew the crowds who shouted “Hosannah” would be many of the same people who would shout “Crucify him” in a few days. Jesus had great mercy for his people, because most assuredly he was their King. Jerusalem was to be his city. Jesus came to bring peace to Jerusalem, but the leaders and many of the people were offended by the Words Jesus shared. How did this spirit of offense and ignorance come upon them? The people were following blind guides or leaders who never prepared their flocks by teaching them the truth (Mat 15:14).
The people were ignorant of what would bring them peace even though the prophets had told them time and time again. Jesus wept, because the people did not embrace his righteousness—his way of being right with God—and he knew an enemy lurked like a lion ready to destroy them. The enemy Jesus spoke of came in 70AD, the Romans conquered Jerusalem, starved and killed many Jews, and destroyed the second temple.
My friends, praise God there is still time for all humanity to embrace the peace Jesus offers. We know his terms for salvation. We must humbly ask the Lord for his mercy and forgiveness, repent of our sinful rebellion against his Word, accept the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross to pay for our sin, and receive the Holy Spirit who brings the Truth to our spirits. Then, the Lord can become our King as we accept his authority over our lives. If we do not have the Prince of Peace living within, there will be no true peace while we are in the world.
Luke 19:41-44 (TPT) Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem
41 When Jesus caught sight of the city, he burst into tears with uncontrollable weeping over Jerusalem, 42 saying, “If only you could recognize that this day peace is within your reach! But you cannot see it. 43 For the day is soon coming when your enemies will surround you, hem you in on every side, and lay siege to you. 44 They will crush you to pieces, and your children too! And they will leave your city totally destroyed. Since you would not recognize God’s day of visitation, you will see your day of devastation!”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your mercy and forgiveness. May seeking hearts choose to welcome you as Lord now and allow you to rule and guide their lives. You see what is ahead and this is how you will prepare us for the future. In Jesus’ name. Amen.