Palm Sunday: A Day Some People Make A Bad Decision

     It is my opinion that Palm Sunday is under appreciated in its importance. The people who greeted Jesus that day didn't realize that it was the beginning of a time of decision for them. On that day, they wanted Jesus to be the promised Messiah, their king, who would deliver them from the shackles of oppression under the Roman Empire. They wanted freedom! They wanted deliverance from earthly cares!

    Is that not so today? Is it not true that today's followers of Jesus have a vast throng among them who welcome him because they expect him to reward their praise of him with prosperity and wealth and luxury? They have willingly accepted the self-serving sermons and teachings of religious motivators, of "name it and claim it" preachers and have now succumbed to the allure of so-called worship services that are really more about satisfying themselves than honoring the Savior.  So, they, as it were, throw "palm leaves" at his feet in an outward display of adoration.

     A few days later, these same misguided and deceived individuals turn their adoration of Jesus into anger of him. Their hosannas are changed into chants of "Crucify him!" Why? Because he was not the Jesus they wanted. He chose a cross instead of a crown.  And, it became obvious that he was showing that those who follow him must make that same choice. Their disappointment turned to hatred which meant that kind of Jesus must be destroyed, so they crucified him. 

     Today is Palm Sunday. Like those of old, you have a choice and that choice will determine if you really have a biblically wonderful Easter next week.  Be honest. Do you want Jesus for what he can do to make life better for you  today or do you want Jesus, regardless of the pain and suffering that following him may bring, so that at the end of this life as you enter heaven you may hear him say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."