Pastor's Blog

Everyone who knows Bible stories, knows about that great moment in Christ’s ministry when, just days away from His crucifixion, He had his disciples saddle a donkey and foal and then rode triumphantly into Jerusalem.  Those present shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that comes in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the Highest” (Matt. 21:9).  It was a moment that would never be forgotten by anyone witnessing it that day.  In fact, this was done by Jesus in fulfillment of a Old Testament prophecy regarding the Messiah (Zech 9:9) and it seemed the people gathered that day knew something big was happening.  As the procession continued the Bible records that the whole city was “moved” by what was happening.  But as always happens when God’s people verbalize their praise to God, the enemy steps in to try and upset things.  The religious leaders asked Jesus to quiet the crowd.  They felt it was too much joy for just Jesus.  Now we all remember what happens next.  Jesus says those famous words: “I tell you that if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out” (Luke 19:40).  Why did He say that?  Simply, because it was true.  The prophecy said they would praise Jesus when He entered the city and if they, animate objects, refused to lift their voices then God would use stones, inanimate objects, to fulfill Bible prophecy.  It’s an interesting thing that what God’s Word has declared will come to pass, and it will come to pass with or without us.  I believe this is what Jesus was saying.  Now of course, He would much prefer to use His people, but we are told, if they should keep silent “others” would be led to say something instead.  Every now and then a “rock” does cry out in defense of what is right and true (see http://theknightshift. blogspot.com/2009/09/its-not-saturday-worship-its-sabbath.html, for starters) and I wouldn’t suggest in this case it’s because His people have been slack or less than forthcoming in sharing the everlasting gospel.  But the point here is simply this: God will use anyone or anything that is willing to be used by Him to bring Him praise in the earth.  And I know, rather than letting a stone declare God’s salvation and grace you would much rather be the one being used by Him, right.  I know I do.