During most of Jesus' life his message was met with confusion and opposition.
But through the many miracles that Jesus performed many people began to follow him.
The people which included his disciples, thought he was to be a miraculous new leader of the Jewish people.
On Palm Sunday the people of Israel lined the streets with palm branches at the height of popularity. Jesus was the man.
Then come Friday most of his disciples besides John had fled. The people had turned against him. They had been insulting him, spitting on him, and throwing stones.
Possibly the very stones in which Jesus said, "He who is without sin cast the first stone." They were hurling rocks at the only in human history that lived without sin though he had know temptation.
So the people perhaps were afraid that he would as many times before, would reveal their sins. So why not let him hang for their crimes.
And so they did. They watched as he was nailed to the Roman torture device which doubled as an execution device. Jesus was nailed to a cross.
Even while Jesus suffered for all our sins the people they mocked him while wearing his royal crown, which was made of thorns.
"You can heal everyone so why not come down from your cross? Show yourself."
When he died he indeed showed himself.
He showed himself again when he rose from the dead.
He showed death and hell who was in charge.
Now for many of us Jesus is a stranger.
You may know of Jesus but you don't know him personally.
Maybe you wear a cross but don't know the person it represents. Maybe you don't know the power of the one who died upon the cross.
Maybe you aren't aware that Jesus wants you.
As a disciple.
He wants you as someone like John who was an ever faithful companion.
Maybe Jesus wants to forgive you for once boldly proclaiming The Kingdom of God but you have turned from him.
As it was with Peter who denied knowing Jesus. He hasn't forgotten you.
Let The Holy Spirit rekindle renew the flame that was sparked when you first knew him and his healing touch.
Maybe you're like Paul who has been an enemy of God.
Jesus calls us all to allow him to be your best friend.
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