Wednesday; April 5

Jesus was riding the wave of popularity. He had been welcomed into the city of Jerusalem with, “Those who went in front and those who followed were shouting: ‘Hosanna!’ Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord; blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David; Hosanna in the highest!’” (Mark 11:9-10). It doesn’t seem like it could get any better than this – and from a human perspective, it didn’t. Within a week, some of those who had been praising Him were condemning Him with shouts of “Crucify Him!”.
Popularity is fickle. It is built on an unstable foundation constructed by people who can be changed by the shifting winds of public opinion. About the only thing consistent about popularity is that it will eventually fade. While this is something most of us realize, I think it is important for us to remember it when we, as Christians, seek to gain fame and good favor in society. Sure, it is nice to be highly regarded, but we cannot rely on public opinion to keep us on top. History has shown that religious popularity ebbs and flows so we must rely on a more solid foundation – our faith in the unchangeable God.

Let’s do what we can to take advantage of the opportunities we have when we have them. And, when we don’t, let’s keep us the good work and never lose hope.

Think About It!

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