Luke 19, 20

Read: Luke 19, 20

Luke 19: 41-44 “As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, ‘If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.’”

Think

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem, the crowd cheered, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). But Jesus knew the cost of their peace would be his death. He wept over the city, saying, “If only you had known on this day what would bring you peace! But now it’s hidden from your eyes” (Luke 19:42). He saw the celebration, but also the suffering ahead.

Jesus cried over the lost souls, knowing many would reject him. His heart broke for those who didn’t recognize their moment of visitation. The people were excited about their king, not understanding that the path to peace would be found through his sacrifice. But his joy was knowing that many would be saved through his death and resurrection.

Reflecting on Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, we see the depth of his sacrifice. Dr. John R.W. Stott, a renowned pastor, wrote in Our Guilty Silence about how the church has often withheld the gospel from the world. Our silence has condemned many to death and misery. Stott emphasized the need for the church to speak out and share the liberating truth of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ love led him to the cross to save us; his example calls us to share that love with others.

How long has it been since you wept for your lost neighbor or relative? How long has it been since you’ve experienced the joy of seeing someone give their life to Christ? Jesus' heart broke for the lost and calls us to feel the same compassion. Let’s be moved by his love and driven to share the good news with those around us. Let us urgently reach out, bringing hope and salvation to those in need, just as Jesus did for us.

Apply

Who in your circle of influence (family, friends, coworkers, neighbors) needs Jesus? Pray for opportunities and wisdom to share the good news of the gospel.

Pray

Jesus, thank you for dying on the cross for me. Thank you for your sacrificial love and mercy. Help me to see my neighbors and loved ones as you see them. Give me boldness and courage as I share my faith with others. May I not be silent in a world that’s dying and going to hell. In Jesus’ name. Amen.