Isn't it strange that we can read a familiar Gospel passage and then one day, suddenly hear it? Today, some of the Pharisees approach Jesus to tell him to leave Jerusalem because Herod wants to kill him.
"Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose.
Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.
' "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling! Behold, your house will be abandoned.
[But] 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.
' I've read this passage before and probably have heard it multiple times.
But many hours after reading this passage, I am still thinking about this exchange between the Lord and the Pharisees.
"Go and tell that fox...
" sounds almost affectionate, almost humorous, hardly the reply of one informed that the most powerful man in the region wants him dead.
But that is of course the point, this is all about Power.
Jesus is dismissive of Herod's threat..
he will continue with healings and exorcisms today, tomorrow and the next day; Herod's power is nothing compared to the power of God the Father.
"It is impossible for a prophet to die outside of Jerusalem.
" Jesus' next words feel as if they are from the mouth of the Father; filled with sorrow and heartbreak at the destiny of Jerusalem, at the choices of his beloved people whom he longs to gather under his wings but who are unwilling.
It feels as if He is talking to us...
today.