"The Wilted Palm Branches"

Last Sunday was "Palm Sunday".  I purchased 19 palm branches for approximately $8.00.  Some may have thought that was an 
extravagant expenditure . . . some were blessed with the symbolism . . . some were shy and thought only children would wave Palm branches.  Many adults risked the own safety to wave those Palm brances when Jesus, on a borrowed donkey road into town.  They cried Hosanna and praised Jesus, their hope for the future. 

Today is Good Friday.  The Palm branches have been in water all week but they are looking wilted and are starting to droop.  On this day all those years ago many who had waved the Palm branches just a few 
days ago were shouting curses in anger because Jesus didn't raise an army or call 10,000 angles but stood silent when He was falsly 
accused, criticized and they betrayed Jesus. 

As I looked at that wilted bouquet, I felt tears fill my eyes.  How did
He do it?  The physical pain was excruciating, the feeling of betrayal was almost too much, and He cried out "Father, why have you 
forsaken me?"  Then in His soul and in His heart and in His body He knew. . . It Is Finished.  All mankind, Jews and Gentiles, are forgiven 
because of His sacrifice.  Everyone would know that when there is criticism, evil betrayal, slander and purposeful alienation we too can choose . . . do I believe it is finished, do I accept His sacrifice and cherish His love.  No matter what or who I now belong to Him. 

Grace, Grace . . . marvelous Grace . . . I press on to the High Calling 
of Christ.  Savior, Redeemer and Friend . . . older Brother . . . Jesus!!  The Palm branches are wilting but the Sweet, Sweet Holy Spirit is
fresh and blooming in our midst and overcomes the world!!  So we can silently praise Him and bleieve Him.  It is finished!!!

Spring Is Here!!

    Pastor Linn