Today's Readings: New Testament -
Matthew 21:12-22
Hebrews 13:9-25
Old Testament -
Proverbs 31
Isaiah 65-66
Click on Text Links to Read Online
Focus Verses: Matthew 21:14-16
14 The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. 15 But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant. 16 "Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him. "Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read, "'From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise'?"
Insight:
In contrast to the oppressive domineering authority people were experiencing at the hands of government and religion, Jesus demonstrated a different kind of authority. Jesus did not lord over people or seek to dominate, but instead defended people from exploitation, healed the sick, and restored the outcast.
When children praised Jesus in celebration and thanks for the wonderful things he was doing, it annoyed the priests and teachers of the law. This was especially irritating because they were singing a well-known song of praise--Psalm 118. This was a psalm of thanks to God for the promised messiah and the salvation he would bring.
When the priests and teachers complained to Jesus, Jesus responded with a bold claim to authority. He said that the children were simply fulfilling the words of another song they knew, Psalm 8--a song of praise that is expressly directed toward God. Jesus was making a startling claim to deity by suggesting that words of worship traditionally reserved for God could be appropriately directed himself.
Response & Action:
I believe what Jesus claims about himself. I believe he is the one Lord, the Christ, the only begotten of the Father. God from God, Light from Light, True God from True God. I believe he is the Savior, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. I look to him for salvation. I acknowledge his authority and deity. I will praise and celebrate him. I will live my life for him. I will follow him and strive to honor him.
Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name and power and authority of the Lord God. O Jesus, you have promised those who love you wonderful things that surpass our understanding. Pour into my heart such love toward you, that I might love you in all things and above all things, and in doing so, may obtain your promises which are far greater than all I can imagine or desire. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: Psalm 8:1
1 O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.
Resources:
Jesus: Lord and Savior
by F. F. Bruce
