Thoughts for Easter
The Praise of Men

If Jesus had been a politician, Palm Sunday would have been his triumph. After three years of public ministry, He rides into the Holy City amidst the cheers, adoration and acclamation of the public. The peoples’ choice was Jesus! But, of course, Jesus was not a politician. He did not rub shoulders with the fat cats, the rich and powerful from the government, public or the religious sector. No, his constituency numbered fishermen, tax collectors, harlots, the sick and lame, the poor, the weak and those without power or influence. Common people just like the Nazarene Himself.

Oh, you can be sure the fat cats were there on Palm Sunday. Not lining the streets, but watching from the shadows with concern etched on their faces. This carpenter’s son from Nazareth was eroding their influence. What could be done? What the crowd, the chief priest, elders and teachers of the law did not know was that this was not the triumph of the Messiah. Did anyone understand? He was not in town to be crowned Messiah. He was not in town for the hosannas of men. He was coming to Jerusalem to please the Father and do His will.

Here is the answer to In His Steps, WWJD or the current popular slogan among the greening crowd: “What would Jesus drive?” It is quite simple…please God not men. Seek to live a life that brings honor and glory to Him. A life that is faithful and obedient to all He commands. We live in a culture of man pleasers. It is more important to us that our neighbor likes us than our neighbor love God. Let’s begin taking our cue from the Lord and live a life that pleases the Father and does His will.