Rollercoaster

Holy Week is mentally one of the most taxing weeks of the year for me. If you really dig into the days leading up to Jesus resurrection it is truly an emotional rollercoaster. Palm Sunday is every bit of that initial climb and drop but for me it’s more similar to the newer coasters that just launch you straight out of the gate. I love the celebration as Jesus enters Jerusalem. Everyone is rallied around God but what He is going to do isn’t what they have in mind. Knowing how quickly they will become disappointed with Jesus and how fast that will turn into hostility is heavy!

You have to wonder…Jesus was aware of what lay ahead…so where was His head in all this?

We were not there but we can still sympathize.  

-We didn’t know Caiphas but we all know someone who has been willing to do whatever it takes to protect what is sacred to him or her.

-We didn’t know Pilate but we do know someone who has tried to do everything they can to keep peace among those impassioned to battle.

-We all know someone who, like the disciples, really wanted Jesus to do more.  Likewise we know those who, like the disciples, love Jesus so much that they want to retreat from any possible conflict.  

“He said to them, “ I’m very sad. It’s as if I’m dying. Stay here and keep alert. ””

‭‭Mark‬ ‭14:34‬ ‭CEB‬‬

Sit with Jesus in the garden.  Passionately led conflict is just moments away and He is completely aware of the agony He will endure.  His anxiety is overwhelming to the point that he sweats blood.  If we sit there, even for a couple minutes, it will be overwhelming to us as well.

In that place where it truly seems like the world is crashing in, don’t forget the Joy and Hope we now have because of what God has done through Jesus!

Last Sunday was Palm Sunday.  I left worship with a heavy heart just thinking about the world crashing in around Jesus.  That afternoon we had an event outside and I saw people that I haven’t seen in over a year!!!  My favorite part of the day was playing on a playground because in that moment my heavy heart was relieved by a joyful reminder of that truth I already know but still sometimes forget.  

Happy (almost) Easter!