John 12: 42 Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
Quickword: Holy Wednesday: Day 4 of Holy Week.
In my studies, there was not much taking place on Day 4 of what we call Holy Week. The week had been busy for Jesus, the entrance into Jerusalem riding on a donkey to the shouts of Hosanna, Bless is He who comes in the name of the Lord. We found Jesus forcing the money changers out of the Temple and we begin to see the plot of those in power to have Jesus arrested. There is some debate among scholars over whether Judas made a deal to betray Jesus on day 3 or 4 of Holy Week. However what is not in dispute is that Judas betrayed the Savior. Scholars speculate that after two exhausting days in Jerusalem, Jesus and his disciples spent this day resting in Bethany in anticipation of Passover. As we move forward this week, our Quickword verse for today gives us food for thought:
- Many believed upon the Lord but didn’t confess out of fear of those in power.
- Religious leaders also failed as they feared being removed from or put out of the synagogue.
- Even among believers today, many prefer the praise of men over the praise of God.
As we look back and trace the steps of Jesus during Holy Week, let’s us ensure we are prepared for his coming again. We know that no man knows the day nor the hour of his return: Let us stay ready so we are not found not ready upon his return.
Thank you for this journey through this Holy Week. May we be ready for Jesus ‘s return Ready or not He will come and receive us unto himself. Be blessed. Amen! Hallelujah. Amen!!