Jesus tells the disciples (3rd time explicitly) that He will suffer, die, and rise again. However, they are confused because their expectations are for a military, conquering hero. Jesus then cures a man of blindness, but it seems He has more sight than the disciples and the rich young ruler (only called Jesus “Good Teacher” and would not follow His teaching). Finally, Jesus seeks sinners and changes them (IE: Zacchaeus).

I jumped ahead a little in Luke so that we could look at this story on Palm Sunday. It shows Jesus the King coming humbly and in fulfillment of various prophecies about the Messiah, God, and the King in David’s descent. However, there are mixed reactions as the crowds rejoice, but the religious leaders reject Jesus the King. Then in shock and surprise, Jesus responds to all this by bursting into tears. Not tears (yet) for what He will go through, but what will happen to them since they rejected Him.

Jesus gives a parable with the goal of his listeners not despairing at the delay of His coming again and the injustice in this world. Specifically it is to encourage faith and prayer.

Jesus responds to the Pharisees' question about the Kingdom of God by saying it is here. He, the King, is in their midst. However, he then goes on to show that the Kingdom is not yet fully here. Thus, we should keep praying for it. As He teaches, He shares many details of what His future return and kingdom will look like.

Jesus heals 10 men of leprosy, but only one of them returns (and that a Samaritan!). Jesus then commends this man and declares his faith saves him. This story is much more than a call to be a thankful people. It calls us to adore Christ, and warns of the danger of halfhearted thanks and faith.

Jesus instructs the disciples to avoid tempting people to sin, to lovingly confront sin, and also forgive when people sin against us. This causes astonishment by the disciples who ask for more faith. Jesus lets them know the issue is not needing great faith, but realizing they trust a great God. Then, lest they get self-righteous or proud of their deeds or faith, they should realize they are only doing their duty.

Jesus continues to challenge the Pharisees due to their love of money (16:14). Now he gives a parable challenging their assumptions about wealth and who is blessed by God. Through the story, Jesus calls us to live with open-eyed generosity to those in need around us. In this Jesus shows them that God’s Word is enough for us to live a life that honors Him.