Verses 20-22

Some visitors from out of town ask Philip about meeting Jesus.

Philip goes to Andrew, who goes to Jesus.

Andrew is a connector, not a front-line kind of person.

Jealousy

In verse 19, we see the Pharisees complaining about Jesus' popularity.

How much damage does my jealousy cause? What trouble does your jealousy create, dear Reader?

Fickle

This feels like deja vu.












Again, as I read about Palm Sunday and Jesus' triumphal entry in verses 12-18, I'm struck by how enthusiastic the crowd is on this day.  And then I remember that on Thursday, Jesus is led away to slaughter.

Takin' Care of Business

In verses 9-11, we learn that Jesus' enemies plot to kill Lararus as well.

They want to leave nothing to chance.

No matter how much people resist God's will it will be done.

Deuteronomy 15:11

There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brother and toward the poor and needy in your land.

Verses 7-8

The Zondervan NIV Bible Commentary writes, "His comment on the poor was not a justification for tolerating unnecessary poverty; but it was a hint to Judas that if if were really concerned about the poor, he would never lack opportunity to aid them."

I wholly agree with the first part of this quote, but I'm not convinced Jesus would waste a hint on Judas like this.

Verses 7-8

Jesus defends Mary's "waste" by reminding his disciples of his upcoming death.

What I find curious is Jesus' statement, "You will always have the poor with you."

Why does he say this?

I plan to pursue this question tomorrow.