Monday, April 11
When We Choose Silence
Even if these [the crowds] are silent, the very stones will cry out. —Luke 19:40
What does Jesus mean, “the very stones will cry out”?
I’ve been wondering how our Lenten theme of a long and winding road relates to rocks and stones crying out. Could it be that because Jesus is riding a colt on a road, he used the stones alongside the road to emphasize how all of creation points to his power and authority?
Jesus defended people who were powerless and oppressed. Those very people are cheering and praising while the religious leaders are criticizing and complaining. Jesus declared that one day his authority will be made known and the structures of oppressive societies will come crashing down. Then all of creation will join together to proclaim Jesus as Lord of all.
Whether we acknowledge the truth of God and how he has revealed himself in Jesus Christ or we choose to remain silent, the truth still stands. The truth is not dependent on anyone’s acknowledgment.
So when Jesus says, “the very stones will cry out,” I believe he is conveying the idea that, whether you acknowledge the truth about Jesus or not, it does not change what is actually true. The people of God should always acknowledge the truth of who Jesus is, whether anyone else does or not.
Let us be stones! Let us always cheer and loudly proclaim the truth as we navigate the long and winding roads throughout each of our life’s journeys.
Lord and Savior, all power and authority belong to you. Bring down evil, and let justice prevail. We loudly praise your name. Amen.
Theresa Sandifer