In other words...


"At the heart of the story stands the cross
of Christ where evil did
its worst and met its match."
~ John Wenham ~

Holy Week has always drawn my heart. Even as a child, I was fascinated- first by the contrasts. I can remember asking my mother how people could change their minds so quickly. Palm Sunday's lauding crowds so quickly became an angry mob. How could this happen? How could these people not see? Mom's answer was that the road into Jerusalem simply had to lead to the Cross. It couldn't happen any other way, or we would have no hope.

I didn't fully comprehend for years- heck, I don't know that I do even now. Everything points to the Cross, and that colors everything I read in Scripture. I have a Messianic friend who insists that to understand the New Testament, I must read with a Jewish sensibility. I must respectfully disagree with this assertion-- while reading through Jewish eyes offers new insights, it is not vital. It is, however, vital to read the Old Testament in the shadow of the Cross.

These days I find myself captivated by the betrayal and crucifixion. How close Evil was to our Saviour, dining with Him, even kissing Him. And then, when all seemed lost...

Rather than Jewish eyes, I want Easter eyes. To see everything not in the darkness of Friday night, but in the glorious light of that Sunday. Everything points to the Cross and beyond to the empty tomb.

Comments

Tracey, in MI said…
Hey Kelly- great post. As to the vital-ness of Jewish eyes- or understanding--- I agree it may not be VITAL... but- I can tell you this- my husband has a Jewish heritage- (3 generations removed) we have held Christian Seder's and my experience with understanding prophecy- and Jesus role as the passover lamb has been greatly enhanced by taking time to try on Jewish eyes-;)

Good job ! Great post!
4/03/2007 09:47:00 AM
The Bass Player's Wife said…
Tracey, thanks for stopping by! I do understand what you are saying about prophecy and so forth. I agree. I think some of my statement is a bit of a knee-jerk reaction to something else going on... reading with a Jewish sensibility has indeed enhanced my understanding, too. Thank you.
4/03/2007 09:54:00 AM
Heather Smith said…
And it is that empty tomb that reminds us that we have victory! Eternal victory! Thank God for that!
4/03/2007 10:53:00 AM
Denise said…
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, bless you.
4/03/2007 11:09:00 AM
Lisa @ The Preacher's Wife said…
To see with Easter eyes...that is a great way to go about this passion week!

Good post!
4/03/2007 12:51:00 PM
Crystal said…
Not vital, but it sure is fascinating to read scripture in the light of the Jewish customs and mindset.

Great post, thanks for sharing!
4/03/2007 04:51:00 PM
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