Close to the Lord

After throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it.
-Luke 19:35 (NRSV)

THE text describes an intimate moment, one almost hidden in the comings and goings before Jesus' final entry into Jerusalem. As a young colt stamps the dust, cloaks are quickly thrown onto its back. And then the strong arms of the disciples lift Jesus. He does not climb up alone; he depends on his friends as he faces the road ahead.

Giving this help requires getting close to the Teacher, to grasp an arm or brace a shoulder. It means the disciples are close enough to feel Jesus' breath on their skin, to smell the sweat on his cloak. Jesus could have found something to stand on without leaning on his friends, but he does not.

For Jesus, once he enters the city, other intimate moments will follow: bread-breaking, wine-sharing, foot-washing, truth-telling. And at what would appear to be the end of the road, once again a few will put their hands under his arms and lower him from the cross. Intimate moments, all.

The Christian's journey to Jerusalem and beyond calls for such intimacy. Discipleship requires vulnerability, closeness, and a willingness to lean on others. Let us give thanks to God for those who stand near, ready to love us, ready to help.

by Pamela Hawkins (Tennessee, USA)