Under His Wings: Lent, Covenant, and the Heart of Jesus

Lent, a season of reflection and repentance, invites us to journey alongside Jesus towards the cross. It's a time to examine our hearts, acknowledge our shortcomings, and seek a deeper connection with God. Amidst the somber tone of Lent, we find a poignant message of covenant and promise in Luke 13:31-35.
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This passage paints a vivid picture of Jesus's unwavering commitment to his mission, even in imminent danger. The Pharisees, perhaps trying to intimidate him, warn of Herod Antipas's murderous intentions. Jesus, however, remains resolute. He calls Herod a "fox," a term of contempt and declares his intention to continue his work of healing and casting out demons. He speaks of fulfilling his purpose, knowing that this path leads to Jerusalem and his ultimate sacrifice. However, in verses 34 and 35, we glimpse the heart of Jesus, overflowing with love and sorrow. He laments over Jerusalem, the city that rejects its prophets, the city that will soon reject him. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem," he cries, his words echoing with a profound sense of longing. He envisions himself as a hen yearning to gather her chicks under her wings, a powerful image of protection, comfort, and unconditional love. This image speaks directly to the covenant relationship God desires with his people. Like a mother hen shielding her young from harm, God longs to embrace and protect us from the dangers of sin and separation. Yet, Jerusalem, representing humanity's stubborn refusal to accept God's grace, "wouldn't let" him. This rejection, however, doesn't diminish God's love. It highlights the tragic reality of human free will and the pain it inflicts on the divine heart. The "abandoned house" Jesus foretells signifies the consequence of rejecting God's offer of salvation. Yet, even in this moment of sorrow, a promise is woven into his words: "You will never see me again until you say, 'Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!'" This statement points to Jesus's eventual return, the culmination of God's covenant with humanity. It's a promise of restoration, a future where hearts will finally turn to him, acknowledging him as the Messiah who brings salvation.

During Lent, we are invited to reflect on our response to God's invitation. Are we, like the Pharisees, trying to dissuade Jesus from his purpose? Or are we like Jerusalem, resisting his loving embrace? Or, are we willing to accept the protection and love that Jesus offers, like chicks under the hen's wings? This passage reminds us that Lent is not just about sacrifice and self-denial. It's about recognizing the depth of God's love, which endured rejection and ultimately triumphed over death. It's about embracing the covenant of grace offered through Jesus Christ, who came in the name of the Lord. As we journey through Lent, let us open our hearts to the longing in Jesus's words. Let us seek refuge under his wings, finding comfort and strength in his unwavering love and the promise of his return. May we, like those who will one day greet him, say, "Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!"