Donkeys get treated so badly here – they are whacked with big sticks constantly, given hardly any food or water, worked hard. If you ask any locals they say this is how the donkey must be treated, this is how he is effective. I think they assume this because the donkey never argues back – it is a peaceful, patient animal, with no malice in its nature to retaliate.
It brings new light to the idea that Jesus chose to ride in on a donkey, as he entered a week where he would be beaten continually, choosing not to retaliate, accepting the brutality of man with patience, endurance, humility… with peace. There is a verse that struck me as I read this story again this weekend. It is when Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, because; “You did not recognise the time of God’s coming to you.” (Luke 19:43) They didn’t recognise that God was coming to them in the form of Jesus, in the form of humility and peace and suffering. It is an upside down concept to those wanting physical, social freedom such as the Jews at the time. They didn’t recognise that by dying, their King was conquering. So much of God’s wisdom and ways are upside down to our earthly perspectives. The verse struck me because I felt like it was a warning. I don’t want to be one of the ones that doesn’t recognise God’s coming! God at work, His voice or His will… because I am so used to looking at my days with my earthly eyes. “Has God not made foolish the wisdom of the world?” 1 Cor 1:20 “But the wisdom that comes from Heaven is first of all pure, then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” James 3:17 God, give us the wisdom that comes from Heaven, give us eyes to recognise you coming to us – your Kingdom at work and how we can join you. May we stay close to you so we can lean our ear towards you and hear the desires of your heart.
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AuthorWe are Brad, Andy, Hunter and Belle. Hoping to keep you connected! Archives
May 2019
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