Luke 21:25-38
Dear RTB’ers,
Now during the day He was teaching in the temple, but at evening He would go out and spend the night on the mountain that is called Olivet. And all the people would get up very early in the morning to come to Him in the temple to listen to Him.
Luke 21:37-38
I’m reminding myself that in our readings we are at Wednesday of Holy Week. A few days ago we had Palm Sunday. (Luke 19:28, ff.) Then the next day Jesus was being questioned by the Pharisees and scribes and Sadducees. (Luke 20:1-40) Finally, yesterday (Tuesday of Holy Week) we saw Him (presumably) speaking with His own disciples. (Luke 20:40 tells us that his challengers had nothing more to say.) So what struck me today was that Jesus knew that His time was coming, but He still went to the temple every day to teach, with people getting up early in the morning to hear Him. He knew His ministry, but I’m thinking that He was also setting an example for His followers. Later on we’ll see the apostles going to the temple and to synagogues to teach and preach, because that’s where the people gathered.
So, what of us? Wherever we go, do we carry Jesus’ message with us? It’s easy enough for us to be in a conversation with a stranger, a conversation that has moved along sufficiently enough that we can ask, “Are you part of a local church?” It’s a yes-or-no response, with some obvious follow-up questions to ask. David used to say, “You bring the people and I’ll preach the Gospel.” I’m sure that Ben feels the same way. It’s not that difficult, folks! Just reach out – have that question at the tip of your tongue. Jesus set the example. Follow Him.
Blessings!
Amen!