APRIL 10 | MARK 11:1-11
- Judy Webb
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Friends To The Very End!
by Judy Webb
"Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve." (Mark 11:11)
At this point it is worth noting Jesus did not spend a night in the city that rejected him! It had already been a long day, an exciting day too, but it was now time to prepare. It was important for Jesus to return to Bethany, his place of safety and friendship…one last time. Surrounded by Mary, Martha, Lazarus and the Twelve, he prepared to face tomorrow and his purpose, his reason for being on earth.
He went to Bethany to avoid premature arrest. He was always in control. When he entered the temple courts and looked around at everything he was aware of what was to come. He knew the time was near when he would clear the temple of all the evil taking place there. But not yet; not today. His time, while fast approaching, had not yet come.
One would think that the temple was the perfect place for Jesus to rest, to feel safe and at home, but not so because the priest and the people refused to give him his rightful place. This causes me to ask; have I given Jesus His rightful place? His perfect place in my life? Would he feel at home with me were it close to the time to fulfill his purpose? Or turn this question around and ask, do I consider Jesus my friend, one I can turn to when the world turns on me?
Jesus knew his purpose, he understood what his Father wanted from him. Do we? We all have a purpose, but do we know what it is? Do we understand how to accomplish it? Do you and I recognize our gifts and passions, and do we use them to glorify God and bring others to know him? Think about such things this passion week.
PRAYER
Jesus,
Every year as we revisit your walk on earth, we need to embrace all this means. There are many important truths in the story which we read each Holy Week. Give us a real sense of Your love and redemption this time around. Reveal something new and point us in the direction of your love. Amen
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JUDY WEBB
I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.
Your commitment to Jesus is very evident, Judy. I always appreciate the challenges you bring to me through your writings.