The busy, harried pace of Jesus’ last week in Jerusalem reminds me of a recent trip back home to Oklahoma. In the 22 years of our marriage, we have never been to Grandma and Grandpa’s house without someone else in the family coming into town to see us as well. Some cousin, or Uncle, or friend comes in to see the wayfaring pilgrims! So it’s always lots of people, not enough time to see all your friends and family, and meals together every day. On this particular trip, Mom, as usual, had a big list of things that needed doing. (Moms just like to see their boys workin’!) So Dad and I put in a Pergo “hardwood” floor in the family room, we repaired the back porch, we worked outside around the pond, we changed the oil in the car, and in between all that, we took time out to eat meals, go to church, see family, take pictures, etc, etc. As usual, it was on the way back home before I thought much about my own children. I had heard them, fed them, corrected them all week, but in the middle of all the festivities, hadn’t been able to spend any productive time with them. I sincerely doubt I taught them much at all that week.
Jesus’ last week was a little like that, so I got to thinking about what he taught his disciples as they were making their way to Jerusalem...