How do you react and receive an unexpected person? How do you receive a very important person? Are you overjoyed to see them? Do you feel caught unaware? Do you feel as though an additional burden has been placed on you? How do you receive Jesus?
Unexpected guests can be joyous and also feel like a burden. We may be very happy to see them, especially if we have not seen them for quite some time. On the other hand, we may feel as though we need to entertain them and feed them.
The city of Jerusalem experienced this mix of emotions as Jesus entered a few days before going to the cross. We Christians call it the Triumphal Entry. But there were some who did not want Him there at all. The Jewish leadership were afraid of an uprising, thereby inciting the Roman army into violent action against the Jewish people.
Yet, Jesus’ disciples and those who were amazed by His miracles were overjoyed that He came to Jerusalem. It is also possible that some were moved to welcome Him with joy without understanding why. Ultimately, Jesus entering Jerusalem on that day created an upheaval that would soon conclude with His death.
Jesus also enters our lives in unexpected ways. He may convict our hearts in a way that creates consternation within us. He may intervene on our behalf and create abundant joy. We must decide how we will receive Him. Will we receive Him with joy or be troubled to the point of rejecting Him?
I pray we all know that Jesus interacts with us. I pray we are aware of His arrival into our lives. I pray each one of us will receive Him with joy and welcome Him with open arms. Jesus interacts with you. Be aware of Jesus. Welcome Him into your life. Receive Him with joy.
Matthew 21:10-11: When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Marty Pressey 