Palm Sunday

The Parable of the Good Samaritan 

Jesus had been on a journey. He'd traveled from Galilee, taking the longer route through Jericho into Jerusalem for the Passover. He knew this would be His last days, and His teachings are especially important along the way. He met the rich young ruler, healed the blind, told the story of the Prodigal Son, gave the parable of the Good Samaritan, met the little tax collector, Zacchaeus, and taught many other crucial lessons.

Jerusalem

To get from Galilee to Jerusalem via Jericho, a traveler followed the Jordan River. This route was only about 23 miles longer than going through Samaria, but it was much more rugged. It required a steep climb in a hot climate. Jericho lies 812 feet below sea level, while Jerusalem sets 2,600 feet above sea level. This steep elevation change takes place in a sharp, fifteen-mile climb that winds through a barren stretch of cliffs, canyons, rocks, robbers, and wild animals.

When Jesus gets to Jerusalem, the crowd there for the Passover welcome Him with praises and shouting. He rides into the city on a borrowed donkey among shouts of "Hosanna" and a carpet of palm branches. In just a few days, some of these same people will shout, "Crucify Him!" Are we like that too? Is our relationship with Jesus on-again, off-again? Are we fair-weather friends who jump ship when the going gets rough? Thankfully, Jesus is never like that. He's always true and faithful. Let us be the same.

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