Introduction

Good morning, dear brothers and sisters in Christ. What a joy it is to come together in this sacred space, united in our faith and our love for the Lord. As we gather here today, we are not merely individuals, but a spiritual family, bound together by the grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Today, we turn our hearts and minds to a city that holds a special place in the narrative of our faith: Jerusalem. The city of Jerusalem, in all its historical grandeur and spiritual significance, is more than just a geographical location. It is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness, a symbol of His divine plan, and a beacon of hope for eternity. In the words of the respected theologian, John Bunyan, "Oh the greatness of the grace of Christ, that he should be thus in love with the souls of Jerusalem sinners! that he should be thus delighted with the salvation of the Jerusalem sinners!"

Jerusalem's Divine Designation

A. The first aspect we're going to look at is the divine designation of Jerusalem. In the verse we just read, Jesus refers to Jerusalem with a deep sense of longing and sorrow. He speaks of a city that has rejected its prophets, a city that has turned its back on those sent by God. Yet, in His words, we also hear a deep love and a longing to gather His people, like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings.

This is a powerful image. It speaks of protection, of care, of love. It speaks of a God who longs to gather His people, to keep them safe, to guide them. But it also speaks of a people who are not willing, a people who have turned their backs on God.

Jerusalem's Historical Significance

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