Zechariah 9:9-12

The links between the prophecies of the Hebrew Bible and the ministry of Jesus Christ are many and varied, and remind us of our common heritage with Judaism. Humble in victory, Zechariah’s savior rides to Jerusalem on a donkey. And from such a lowly stance, the Lord of all invites us to rejoice in the victories of our God and King. The challenge for the prophets has always been to help people see this truth. So let us have the vision to look beyond the expectations of our worldly lives to see presence of God in the humble among us, the love of God in the lonely among us, and the victory of God in the face of every prisoner of hope who looks for salvation to the One on a donkey, the One born in a stable, the One whose humility and love conquer the world.

Psalm 145:8-15

In these times of factional strive, internecine conflict, and doctrinal debate, let us remember the timeless words of the Psalmist. God loves everyone - not just the ones we agree with. God’s compassion extends to all God’s works – not just the things that we think are important. Let us remember this the next time we ponder how to respond to conflict in our church or in our community – whether it be a debate over legacy or a hockey riot. Let us remember that God loves everyone and God’s compassion extends to all things.

Romans 7: 15-25a

Sad but true – we will sin. But the good news is, we are still saved. Paul invites us to consider the effects of grace, such that the law of God reveals to us what is right and assured us of God’s love. And so we struggle, knowing through God’s grace what is right and struggling to overcome the power of evil that tempts us toward sin. We cannot resolve this ourselves, but through the saving grace of Jesus Christ we are encouraged away from sin and when we fail we are still forgiven.

Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30

Who will understand the teachings of our Lord? Jesus expressed frustration that the people rejected the prophecies of John because of his self-denial and denied the teachings Christ because of his willingness to eat and drink with outcasts and sinners. But Jesus knows that his work reveals the wisdom of God. And even if those with worldly experience and conventional expertise don’t get it, others receive Jesus’ teachings with the innocence of children. And so Jesus offers salvation for those who accept his ministry, for those who labor and are heavy-laden. And in contrast to the costs of living in the world, Jesus’ yoke is easy and his burden is light. And so we are refreshed!