Sunday, April 1, 2012

Who Were They?

The woman, a widow, a certain man, a blind man, little children, owners... Unnamed characters played small but often important parts in the Bible. Even in the Easter story, anonymous people added to the drama. Centuries of Bible reading and teaching have brought notoriety to countless individuals.

“Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying the colt?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it.’”
Those who were sent went and found it just as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?”
They replied, “The Lord needs it.” Luke 19:30-34 (NIV)

The curious owner followed the two men. Maneuvering through a boisterous crowd, he trudged up the hill outside of the city. When the people cleared for the donkey, he saw Jesus. It was true.

He had heard stories about Jesus saving the Jews and longed to meet him. But with throngs surrounding the colt, the owner could only watch from a distance. As singing started, he joined the chorus. Excitement reigned. The multitude formed a path in front of his donkey. They threw palm fronds and cloaks on the dusty road as they praised Jesus. Not only was his donkey a part of the journey, but so was he because he obeyed.

The unnamed man became an integral part of Palm Sunday. Like other anonymous people in the Bible, he would probably be shocked to learn of his prominence.

God’s plan is like a gigantic puzzle with each section completing the picture. If even a tiny piece is missing, the entire image is distorted and diminished. No part is too small. God joins his people with all of their talents, skills, and actions into his tapestry.

Dear Lord, thank you for using each action, large or small, as part of your plan. Amen.

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