Matthew 20-23 (The Daily Walk Bible).

What incredibly sad words: “Finally, the owner sent his son, thinking, ‘Surely they will respect my son'” (Matthew 21:37). They didn’t…

The religious authorities kept trying to “gotcha” Jesus! How did that work out for them? “And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions” (22:46).

Jesus, in return, continues to point out their sinfulness in chapter 23. By stating that they murdered Abel to Zechariah Jesus includes all of Old Testament history, since the Hebrew Bible has a different book order than ours.

Our reading concludes with another example of God’s incredible love in the face of human sinfulness: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!” Because of their rebellion they face judgment: “See, your house is left to you desolate.” But even then, all is not lost: “For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” (23:37-39)