I have led numerous study tours to the Holy Land. Without exception, there is always no lack of excitement among us when we gather at our local airport for departure.

I imagine it would have been similar for the pilgrims in Jesus’ time. Scattered all over the Mediterranean world, they had to make their pilgrimage to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover every year, as required by the Law of Moses. As they descended the Mount of Olives and approached Jerusalem, the panoramic view of the city and the majestic Temple Mount would have greeted them. The tiredness from a long, weary journey would have given way to a sense of joy and excitement upon seeing the temple, the symbol of God’s presence for the Jews, and the pride of the nation.

Some 2,000 years ago, traditionally known as Palm Sunday, the long-anticipated Messiah approached the city with the pilgrims. The crowd shouted with joy and welcomed Jesus as their king as He rode on a donkey (Mark 11:1–11).

However, Jesus’ emotional reaction was the opposite of that of the crowd and His disciples. He wept for the city (Luke 19:41), knowing that Jerusalem did not recognise her ruler and king (vv. 41–44; Matthew 23:37–38). The temple was no longer fulfilling its function of drawing people close to God, leading Jesus to cleanse it the following day (Mark 11:15–19), and subsequently to predict its destruction (13:1–2). The temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. This was a very sad ending for a nation that rejected God and His Messiah.

This reminds us that we cannot impress God with our magnificent church buildings. He is looking for people with contrite hearts that seek Him. May we be people who lament for the sins in our lives, our church, and our nation. May we allow God to create in us a clean heart.