For three years Jesus healed, cast out demons, raised the dead, calmed the seas and winds, walked on water, made wine out of water, and more.
Wouldn’t you think that was proof of His deity?
Yet.
When He entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey (fulfilling Zechariah 9:9), He was joyously greeted by the crowds.
Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David; Hosanna in the highest! (Mark 11:9-10)
Five days later they called for His crucifixion. “Crucify Him!” (Mark 15:13-14)
What happened?
I used to think that they were two different crowds. More likely, though, the Friday crowd were people whose expectations of a political Messiah had been dashed. They couldn’t bear that He didn’t meet their expectations. He didn’t behave the way they wanted. It wasn’t turning out the way they desired.
We might say we would never have done that, and yet we can crumple in bad times when we only expect our version of good from God.
Peter lived with Jesus for three years and saw not only His miracles, but also His sinless life. Peter proclaimed “You are the Christ” (Mark 8:29), and shortly after rejected Jesus’ statement of His coming crucifixion (Mark 8:32).
We, or a loved one, might have unexpected health and financial trouble. We may suffer horrible rejection, or persecution, or other difficulties. And we will have the common irritants of life. We will be in trouble if we expect only our version of good times! We must not be surprised by trouble and trials and tribulation.
Jesus told us in this world we would have trouble (John 16:33). We are also told that He would be with us always (Matthew 28:20). God promises that He works all things together for good to those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
Beware. In this fallen world, this sin-laden world, there will be bad times. Focus on the truth of our eternal God. KNOW that what has happened is from your loving sovereign Father. Accept what He is doing. You are His beloved child.
Trust Him.
