Morning Devotional 032926 Where Do You Stand?

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

March 29, 2026

John 13:31-38

31 When Judas was gone, Jesus said, “Now the Human One has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify the Human One in himself and will glorify him immediately. 33 Little children, I’m with you for a little while longer. You will look for me—but, just as I told the Jewish leaders, I also tell you now—‘Where I’m going, you can’t come.’ 34 “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other. 35 This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.” 36 Simon Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you can’t follow me now, but you will follow later.” 37 Peter asked, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I’ll give up my life for you.” 38 Jesus replied, “Will you give up your life for me? I assure you that you will deny me three times before the rooster crows.

Good Morning! Are you ready to shout Hosanna?

The procession of palms represents the changing of the guard. 

Throughout history, earthly kings arrived on a mighty stallion, armed with a sword. Their hearts were often filled with pride, greed, and the desire for power. Earthly kings defeated their enemies and rose to power on the backs of all those they defeated. They came to oppress anyone who could be beaten down. 

Jesus, the King of the Jews, entered on the back of a donkey, armed only with the Word of God. His heart was filled with love, mercy, and compassion for all. He came not to oppress the poor, weak, and outcasts but to raise them to God’s glory. 

We would like to think that we would have been among those following Jesus, but look at the crowd of followers. Many are members of the lowest levels of society: farmers, fishermen, and the uneducated poor. Then there is the risk of following a group of radicals who talk of loving their enemies and following a king who carries no earthly weapons. On which side of the street do you find yourself this morning? 

God of Wisdom, you bless us abundantly! Wow! You ask much of us, O God. We are uncomfortable going against the norm. Help us be strong! Thank you for sending Jesus to save us. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: Will we stand with Jesus in danger, or seek the safety of the majority?

Stand up, stand up, for Jesus! Pastor Liz