February 22nd Reflection by Bill Lynch

Luke 13:31-35
The Lament over Jerusalem

 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” ’

Reflection
How much I yearned for the presence of Jesus that day. As I stood in Jerusalem; it just wasn't the same anymore. Everything had changed over the years. I remember when King David worked on the plans. Hand in hand with God, David and the Father lay out all the details. It was amazing. And then King Solomon carrying out the construction. It was a glorious day. But soon it would all come to an end. Destruction and all of the people left for another city. God, it seemed had abandoned this place. Then the rebuilding and the restoration. Not as fancy as the first time, but real nice. God was with his people. But, now... it seems God has left. Or maybe I should say God has come to his people but has left this place. Come in flesh to be with the people. But, God is in Jesus walking among the poor, the ill, the people that need him and know it.

So, here I stand, in Jerusalem... empty. Only for a while though. Soon Jesus will come and open this place up wide for all people. God will return and won't be contained by my walls or my curtains. God in Jesus and in Spirit will reign wide open before all. Yes, before and right in front of us all... right here in Jerusalem and all around the universe.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, come into the temple of my heart... tear it wide open... that all may see your glory... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen