Matthew 26:1-5

Matthew 26:1-5 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  I've spent my life trying to love Jesus.  I read the Gospels with awe -- every page, Jesus is exhibiting love and mercy, healing the sick and giving hope to the hopeless.  Jesus is trying to point every eye, every heart, to God.  But to do so, some hearts need to be shaken loose, so that the cobwebs fall and hearts are awakened to the majesty of God.  Some hearts have become so trapped by false gods and structures of power that Jesus takes radical steps, and they resist.  I'm sure there are parts of me that would resist as well.
  While Jesus did a lot of comforting, he didn't come to comfort those who were resisting him.  It's not a comfortable place, to be far from God and not know it.
  My hope is that we, as the church, might be aware that people react differently to Jesus.  Some have enthusiasm and joy, while others are much more reserved, even threatened by his power.  May we be aware enough to approach each person differently, listening to the story of their journey with humility and love, and praying for the wisdom to help them see how God has been at work in their lives.