The Jesus Bible Reading PlanНамуна

KING FOR A DAY

On this enormously notable day in the life of Jesus, the people tried to make him king. Yet, rather than accepting their praise and love, he escaped the crowd in order to go experience the praise and love of his Father. After Jesus miraculously multiplied the fish and loaves, many people believed that he was the promised Messiah and wanted him to establish his earthly rule. Jesus had his sights set on a different throne and a different kingdom.

God the Father had sent Jesus to earth not to be exalted but to be humbled. Throughout Jesus’ ministry, even when he was standing atop a hill in Galilee, he had his sights set on another hill — one just outside of Jerusalem, where he would give his life as a ransom payment for many (Mk 10:45). In this instance, as always, Jesus did not consider his power and eternal equality with God something to be used for his own advantage. He could have taken the glory for this miracle, but he refused. Instead, he took “the very nature of a servant” and “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death — even death on a cross” (Php 2:6 – 9). Because of his complete obedience, God the Father raised him from the dead and exalted him to the highest place in heaven, giving him the name that is above every name.

Jesus understood that earthly accolades are empty and fickle. He remained obedient to God’s plan. The throne where Jesus now sits is infinitely higher than any earthly throne.

Jesus, help me to follow your example of humility. Remind me that earthly accolades are nothing compared to pleasing you. Amen.