In Luke 13:31-35, we encounter a poignant moment where Jesus expresses His sorrow over Jerusalem. This passage reveals Jesus’ deep compassion and sadness for the city that has repeatedly rejected God’s messengers. It also offers profound insights into the nature of divine love and the consequences of rejecting God’s call.
Scripture Reading:
“On that very day, some Pharisees came, saying to him, ‘Get out, and go away from here, for Herod wants to kill you!’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox, “Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I complete my work. Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the next day, for it can’t be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem.”’ ‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that kills the prophets, and stones those who are sent to her! How often I would have gathered your children together, like a hen gathers her own brood under her wings, and you would not! Behold, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”’” — Luke 13:31-35 (WEBBE)
Reflection: Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem reveals His deep love and sorrow for a city that has consistently resisted God’s messengers. His reference to Herod and His resolve to continue His mission despite threats underscore His commitment to fulfilling His purpose. The metaphor of a hen gathering her brood under her wings poignantly illustrates Jesus’ desire to protect and nurture the people of Jerusalem, even as they reject Him.
The phrase “your house is left to you desolate” signifies the spiritual emptiness and impending judgment that comes from rejecting God’s invitation. Jesus’ sorrow is not merely for the physical city but for the spiritual state of its people, who have failed to recognize and embrace the salvation He offers.
This passage challenges us to reflect on our own responsiveness to God’s call. Are there areas in our lives where we resist or ignore God’s guidance? Are we open to His protection and care, or do we, like Jerusalem, reject His attempts to gather us under His wings?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we are moved by Your compassion and sorrow for Jerusalem. Help us to recognize Your call and embrace Your protection and guidance in our lives. Forgive us for the times we have resisted or ignored Your love. Open our hearts to receive You fully, and guide us in living in a way that honors Your name. May we be responsive to Your call and reflective of Your grace in our daily lives. In Your name, Amen.
Action Plan:
- Examine Resistance: Identify areas in your life where you may be resisting or ignoring God’s call. Seek to understand why and how you can become more open to His guidance.
- Embrace God’s Care: Reflect on the metaphor of the hen gathering her brood. Spend time in prayer asking God to gather and protect you, and trust in His care for your life.
- Respond to God’s Call: Make a conscious effort to respond positively to God’s invitations, whether through His Word, prayer, or the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
Thoughts for Contemplation:
- In what ways might I be rejecting or resisting God’s call in my life?
- How can I more fully embrace the protective and nurturing care that Jesus offers?
- What changes can I make to ensure I am responsive to God’s invitations and open to His guidance?
As you contemplate these questions, seek to align your heart with Jesus’ desire for you to be gathered under His wings, embracing His love and protection and responding faithfully to His call.
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"