THURSDAY, 2 June, 2016

Mournful Ascent to the Mount

So David went up by the Ascent of the Mount of Olives, and wept as he went up; and he had his head covered and went barefoot. And all the people who were with him covered their heads and went up, 
weeping as they went up. - 2 Samuel 15:30

Imagine this tearful scene, David the king, head covered as he traveled barefoot and wept. His loyal company of people, mournfully began their ascent up the Mount of Olives, covered their heads and wept with him.

When I go to Israel, I like to go by myself to the Mount of Olives, right as the sun goes down. It is so cool to watch the city changing colors as the sun sets.  It is a solitary place where I just sit and contemplate. Then I clearly picture the Old Testament stories in my mind. I can imagine David as he was walking and weeping, as he crossed through the Kidron Valley and up to the Mount of Olives and escaped from Absalom.

What incredible comparison do we see here? Jesus of Nazareth took this same sorrowful journey. He went up to the Mount of Olives to a familiar place which was the Garden of Gethsemane. Luke 22:39-44 tell us: 

"He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. When He came to the place … being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground."

In the garden He was arrested, later beaten, tortured and put to death on the cross for our sins.  He willingly accomplished our Salvation. Jesus Christ, King of Salem, Priest of the Most High God, brought peace to us (Ephesians 2:14-18; Hebrews 7:1). He not only ascended to heaven from the Mount of Olives but will return there for His second coming. 

And in that day His [Jesus] feet will stand on the Mount of Olives…
and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two…

~Zechariah 14:4~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!