On this day of Holy Week, Jesus returned to the temple that morning, where He was challenged by the chief priests, scribes, and other religious leaders. He amazed all who listened. The leaders were stunned and enraged, wanting to arrest him. But, fearing the crowd who delighted in Jesus’ words, they waited. This scene reminds me of the passage from 2 Corinthians 2:14-17, which describes the delivery of the gospel message as “to one a fragrance from death to death, and to others a fragrance from life to life.” Similarly, a religious mindset hindered the leaders from receiving the message of Truth. Their pride led them to a closed, deluded mind and likely sealed their eternal fate. The same is true today.
As Jesus exited the temple, he continued teaching from the Mount of Olives. There, he delivered what is known as the Olivet Discourse, which offered extended teaching on the end times. His teaching and parables remind us to remain humble, obedient, faithful, watchful and ready for our Lord’s return.
Humility is the key to abundant, kingdom living and readiness for eternity. Humility began when we first recognized our need for a Savior. And humility is the daily prerequisite to receiving instruction, correction, comfort, and counsel.
Father, we bow before You and acknowledge our need for the Holy Spirit in every area of our lives. Where we exhibit resistance, help us, Lord, to humble ourselves before You. We surrender to Your ways, for they are always good.