Holy Week DevotionalSample

Jesus’ last full day before His betrayal and crucifixion started with Him teaching in the temple. Why is this significant? Remember, it was Passover Week, so Jewish people were coming from all over the world to celebrate in Jerusalem. So Jesus being there to teach is a huge deal!

It's easy to see people on the platform and think: “Why do they get those opportunities? Why don't I get that opportunity?”

Years before Jesus ever had that opportunity, the Bible tells us that at 12 years old, Jesus was sitting at the feet of the rabbi learning. The idea is that before Jesus ever got promoted, He took the seasons of preparation. Many of you guys are frustrated from the season you're in - you haven’t gotten the part in the school play, or you haven’t been made captain of the team. Do what Jesus did - if you take care of your private preparation, then God will take care of your public promotion.

After teaching that morning, Jesus heads up to the Mount of Olives to meet with His disciples privately. He teaches them that many will start but few will finish. What a contrast to what they saw at the temple! The temple was probably packed with people hearing the message, shouting Jesus down, celebrating the teaching, but then Jesus pulled his disciples aside and basically said “few are going to make it”.

Don’t just be a fan that attends the church, be a follower that goes with Jesus into the garden, and stands firm until the end. A fan is in it for themselves, a follower is in it for the one they are following. In Jesus’ ministry there were thousands of fans, but few followers, and even the few disciples He did have, He told them that some wouldn’t make it. Make it your ambition to not just start strong, but to finish strong. Celebrate Jesus with the crowd in the church, but also follow him in the private moments.

Today as you pray: ask the Lord to sustain your patience as you prepare yourself in private.