As I read the events surrounding Palm Sunday in John 12, I related to many of the characters who participated in that moment in time.
 

The scriptures note that a crowd of curious observers attended the event, probably hoping for a miracle. Some religious observers judged the curious onlookers, critical of the attention and worship given to Jesus. And Jesus' disciples, who followed Jesus everywhere, weren't even aware of the significance of the moment until later.

The previous day in Bethany, Jesus' friends, followers, and his future betrayer, surrounded Him; plus ,some curious and critical observers showed up. Lazarus, who Jesus had just raised from the dead, shared an intimate moment and a meal with His Savior. Close by, his sisters attended to Jesus' needs. Martha served Him, and Mary offered her extravagant expression of love and appreciation.

Judas, who later betrayed Jesus, criticized Mary for her extravagant display of affection. The curious crowd sought Jesus because of His miracles. And the religious leaders judged the entire situation with Jesus and His followers.

I see a little of myself in each of these characters. Lazarus and his sisters desired to be with the One who had miraculously intervened in their lives and express their gratitude to Him. And the onlookers, who didn't know Him personally, were curious about His ability to perform miracles.

Yet I would probably have been a bit cautious of a stranger who attracted crowds with miracles. And if I didn't know the significance of the event, I would have been concerned with the extravagance of pouring a valuable resource on Jesus' feet, instead of using the resource to help the poor.

So, as I celebrate Easter this coming weekend, I pray that I will become even more aware of the significance of this spiritual celebration. And I want my focus to be on Christ, not on the traditions and beliefs of others.

Blessings to you during this Easter celebration!

Photo/Wikimedia Commons (Former "paso" of the Entry in Jerusalem at Salamanca, Spain by Danisd75

More thoughts on Palm Sunday BLESSED thoughts for Palm Sunday: "Consistency" by Don Pucik