The Shema

 

Last night I was cranky.  Maybe that’s why my family left me alone for the evening and went about their business.  I realized that I needed to spend some time with Jesus.  So I turned on The Chosen and binge watched the first 3 episodes of season one, because whenever I watch The Chosen, I feel like I’ve just been with Jesus.  Jesus with skin on.  I see him more clearly, feel his nearness as I watch his story unfold on the screen.

So, episode 3 was about Jesus interacting with a group of children.  At one point in the episode Jesus asks the kids to recite the Shema, and he sits there listening as the little ones proudly speak out the familiar words taught to every Hebrew child:

“Hear, O Israel!  The Lord our God is One.  And you shall love the Lord your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul, and with all of your strength..”

I kept watching Jesus’ face as he listened and gazed at the faces of the children.  He was all filled up!  So proud of them.  Yet I also saw sorrow in his eyes.

Why?

He knew what lay ahead for the children, and for himself.  Yet he was all filled up, listening to them worship, trying so hard to please him.

After that, we turned the TV to the ongoing worship and prayer service at the International House of Prayer in Kansas City – Jim had joined me by then.  And a group of kids, actually young adults, was singing love songs to Jesus.  And I saw his face again, all filled up as he gazed over each boy or girl singing about his goodness, his glory, the people in the room  dancing, singing, some laying on the floor worshiping.

And you, Jesus were all filled up, overcome with love for each one, but maybe some sadness, too?  Sadness for the hardships your kids will face.  Your kids in Afghanistan, many of whom may be with you before the week ends.  Who love you with all their heart, souls and strength – to the very end.

And I am all filled up, seeing you all filled up.  Knowing that you see, and you care.  Nothing misses your gaze.  No one falls to the ground without your notice, not even a sparrow.

May I always be counted among your kids, Jesus, loving you, pleasing you, serving you, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Yeshua Hamashiach.  Who for the joy set before you – your kids – endured the cross, despising the shame and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God, where you ever live to make intercession for us.