You Were Not Willing

I suppose one of the saddest verses in the Bible is a lament over Jerusalem by Jesus. (Matthew 23:37) As He was teaching there before His crucifixion and resurrection, He turned to the city and told those who would listen that He had wanted to gather the people of Jerusalem to Himself as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings for safety. Then, He mournfully says, "But you were not willing." He came to His own, but His own did not receive Him, and it crushed the heart of the Savior. I wonder how many times He feels that way for people today?

Jesus reveals Himself to everyone, because He loves all of us. He speaks to our hearts, and He shows us through His creation how great and wise He is. He has even given us the Bible which is a testimony of Himself and His love for us. However, Jesus will not force anyone to follow Him or love Him. We all have a choice. Many choose to reject Him and go their own way. They don't know what they are missing. It is not only life in heaven for eternity. Those who come to Jesus are cared for in His love and protected by the peace that passes understanding, even as we go through the trials of life. Yes, we abide under the shadow of His wings, and there is no safer, warmer place in the universe.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Matthew 24-27.