Tuesday Thoughts

When Jesus returned to Jerusalem on Tuesday, the chief priests and scribes had put their heads together and collectively agreed that something had to be done with Jesus.  He was not only a troublemaker, but what He did in the Temple touched an economic nerve.  Too many were getting money on the side for Jesus to be ignored.  When He arrived in the Temple on Tuesday, His enemies were no longer staying in the shadows.  They came out with questions which they felt sure would cause Him to lose the popular appeal He brought with Him to the city.   

Tradition calls it a day of controversy.  His authority was challenged as He was asked about the source of His authority. Then they sought to trap Him with the question about paying taxes to Caesar.  One answer would label Him a traitor to His people and the other would label Him as a threat against Rome.  No matter how He was challenged that day, He ended up with the upper hand.  His answers confounded His antagonist.  Instead of being put on the defensive, He challenged those who questioned Him.    

Not only did He handle all the verbal challenges, but He spoke against those who sought to get rid of Him by saying, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplace...They devour your widow's houses..."  (Luke 20:46-47)  Even in the face of great danger, Jesus did not waver.  He did not try to find the easy way that would please everyone and make His life more livable.  The only place He stood midst the controversy was on the side of the Father in Heaven.  His bold stand points to where we should stand.