Today’s text shows us stark contrasts in the nature of God vs. the nature of mankind. We will see how God’s intention is to give life to us all through His tremendous sacrifice. And mankind not only resists God’s love and compassion but attempts to eliminate it altogether.

 
At that time some Pharisees said to him, “Get away from here if you want to live! Herod Antipas wants to kill you!” Jesus replied, “Go tell that fox that I will keep on casting out demons and healing people today and tomorrow; and the third day I will accomplish my purpose. Yes, today, tomorrow, and the next day I must proceed on my way. For it wouldn’t do for a prophet of God to be killed except in Jerusalem! “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. And now, look, your house is abandoned. And you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’”” (Luke 13:31–35, NLT)

In the above text we see Jesus’ in agony over the spiritual condition of God’s people. God’s heart is to bring salvation to those He loves. Yet, people continue to resist God’s way of love.

 
For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” But you would not,” (Isaiah 30:15, NKJV)

At the end of today’s text, we see Jesus speaking as God to His people. 

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; and assuredly, I say to you, you shall not see Me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’”” (Luke 13:34–35, NKJV)

Jesus’ final word to God’s people was basically, “I am done with you unless and until you recognize Me as your Messiah and receive me as the One Who comes in the Name of your Lord.”

 
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:” (John 1:12, NKJV)

I urge you to receive God’s plan of salvation which comes not through your good works or righteousness, but only through the sacrifice of Christ. 

Pastor Mike