JESUS THE LION AND LAMB WEPT

REFLECTION FOR TODAY,
November 19, 2020
By Fr. Andrew Ibegbulem, OSA

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes.” Lk. 19:41-42

Jesus, as both the Lion and the Lamb is our Savior, but He is also the humble servant who obeyed his Father’s will even unto death. He rejected earthly power, and mourns for Jerusalem because, by not accepting him, they will not find peace. He weeps over Jerusalem and its upcoming destruction, saying, They will smash you to the ground … because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.

It’s hard to know exactly what Jesus knew about the future of the people of Jerusalem. But we do know, from this passage, that His knowledge made Him weep in sorrow. Here are a few points on which to meditate.

First, it’s important to see the image of Jesus weeping. To say that Jesus wept implies that this was not simply some small sadness or disappointment. Rather, it implies a very deep sorrow that moved Him to very real tears. So start with that image and let it sink in.

Second, Jesus was weeping over Jerusalem because, as He approached and had a good view of the city, He immediately became aware of the fact that so many people would reject Him and His visit. He came to bring them the gift of eternal salvation. Sadly, some ignored Jesus out of indifference while others were infuriated at Him and sought His death.

Third, Jesus was not only weeping over Jerusalem. He was also weeping over all people, especially those of His future family of faith. He wept, in particular, at the lack of faith that He could see so many would have. Jesus was keenly aware of this fact and it grieved Him deeply.

Reflect, today, upon the serious temptation we all face of being indifferent to Christ. It’s easy for us to have a little faith and to turn to God when it is to our advantage. But it is also very easy to remain indifferent to Christ when things in life seem to be going well. We easily fall into the trap of thinking we do not need to daily surrender to Him in the most complete way possible. Root out any indifference to Christ today and tell Him you want to serve Him and His holy will with your whole heart. Let us strive to be peacemakers in our daily lives by serving others and building the Kingdom here on earth.

Lord, I beg of You to weed out every bit of indifference in my heart. As You weep over my sin, may those tears wash me and cleanse me so that I may make a total commitment to You as my Divine Lord and King. Jesus, I trust in You.