Aug 21st

1 Samuel 13     Jeremiah 50     Mark 11     (Click on the Reference to go to the passage)

Jesus’ authority and kingship are the pertinent matters in this chapter. The opening of Mark 11 with the triumphal entry is all about who Jesus is. For many of us the story is so familiar that we can easily fail to grasp the significance of all that unfolds here. The disciples make the long uphill journey from Jericho to Jerusalem filled with the anticipation of what is to come. For them, this is not merely another pilgrimage to Jerusalem for a festival but the moment when they will see the Kingdom come. Jesus is at the centre of all that happens here – he is clearly lauded as the rightful king. In the ancient near east you wouldn’t lay your cloak on the ground for your friend or even for a highly honoured person. You wouldn’t remove branches from the trees to wave for just anyone. No, these are acts which were reserved for welcoming the true king. Mark wants to make clear to his readers that Jesus is King and that he has authority as such. This is no constitutional monarchy but the seat of overall power and authority.

Jesus’ actions in the temple make clear that he has authority even there. His overturning of the tables force the suspension of the whole sacrificial system of worship. Jesus doesn’t just challenge materialism and commercialisation, he challenges the whole system. He teaches and acts with authority. In many ways it is these actions which lead (in human terms) directly to his death.

   What is our reaction to Jesus’ kingship and authority? Has Jesus become merely our helper and guide or will we give him complete authority in our lives. Authority over our money, possessions, time and beliefs? Jesus demands this with the promise that, if we forgive others, he will grant us his authority for his purposes.

(church musician)