Today’s scripture: Luke 19:41-44 (ESV-text and audio) (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
This passage has always seemed so out of place to me. Here is God’s sinless son about to endure a heinous death — yet, he stops during his tour of a grand city to shed tears because it’s going to be conquered and destroyed years after he’s returned to heaven. So why should he give a hoot about it, then? But after reading this verse for about the 40th time for today’s devotional, the “a-ha” light bulb turned on for me. I see this as a prime example of Jesus’ unselfish love.
If I were just a few hours away from crucifixion, I can’t imagine I’d be thinking of anyone or anything else except li’l ol’ me. I’ve had several surgeries, and let me tell you, I was thinking primarily about myself for several days beforehand, even though the procedures were intended to ease various types of pain. I sure wasn’t shedding any tears about anyone else’s impending hardships!
I believe Jesus could have been filled with sorrow for more than the destruction of Jerusalem, though. In verse 42 he laments that the citizens don’t realize “the things that make for peace!” Not having peace certainly is worth crying about. It’s interesting how some human quests keep cropping up throughout the course of history.
Does that still happen today — the search for peace? How do we find it? One of Jesus’ many titles is Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He himself also promises peace (John 14:27).
If someone is willing to die for his beliefs (and ends up being resurrected from the dead by God!) maybe there’s something worth checking out, if you haven’t already.
Thought for the day: We encounter Jesus, again and again, and have the opportunity to respond. Will I know the “hour of my visitation”? Will I recognize the things that make for my peace?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.