”As
he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole
multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice
for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who
comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” (Luke 19:37-38)
There are no miracles recorded in this portion of
Luke’s gospel – described by his sources – most likely eyewitnesses.
A normal reading doesn’t reveal anything
spectacular.
We have grown accustomed reading Gospel stories
focusing on miracles and healings worked out by Jesus – they catch our
attention.
The good news about God’s kingdom was not the
miracles and healings that much, but the good news that God’s gracious,
merciful presence was among the people in their daily lives.
Consider all those who may have been assured,
comforted or encouraged by Jesus’ preaching. His preaching was indicating
clearly that God was interested in each one of them: young or old, natives or
Gentiles.
While there are no eye-catching, attention-grabbing
happenings described here, nevertheless:
We can “see” there the miracle of a king entering
the royal city – a fulfilment of ancient prophecy (Zechariah 9:9).
We can “see” there the miracle of praise – the
outflow of joy expressed in praising God and affirming His majesty (Luke 19:38).
We can “see” the miracle of the King’s lament over
the city…foreseeing its devastating future: “And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over
it saying, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that
make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.” (Luke 19:41, 42).
Let us consider God’s “miracles” in our daily lives
and let our hearts overflow with joy in praising Him. Blessed is the King!
Pastor Alois