Page 12 - THE CHURCH BEFORE THE MOCKING WORLD

CHAPTER THREE
Symbols of Authority in Humility
In Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity we see its central figures riding in a triumphal entry on the backs of animals.
In Hinduism, we see depictions of Garnesh riding on the back of a rat. The symbolism behind this is that the rat gnaws through anything and so Garnesh is able to breakthrough any obstacle. This is why in many senses this idol is so popular in a culture of so many obstacles.
In Islam, we see the Prophet riding into Mecca on the back of a camel with his mighty army to take control and bring vengeance upon those that have withstood him. The Camel is known as the proudest of the beasts and symbolises the authority of the one who rides in triumph.
In Christianity, we see Our Lord Jesus Christ riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. The most humble of creatures, the most unassuming of animals, the donkey represents the very opposite of power and might. No other animal could be less ostentatious as a symbol of the life and teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ than a donkey.
In the modern world we tend not to use animals to carry us from place to place but rather technological and mechanical means of conveyance. Interestingly, there is a similar symbolism and status attached to these modern forms of travel.
It is interesting to try and project forward to think through how Jesus would travel into Jerusalem today. Would he choose a power brand like a Maserati or even a Mercedes or a BMW?Probably not.
It is almost silly to imagine, but to be honest, it seems almost certain that Jesus would probably ride into Jerusalem on a bicycle. The bicycle being the lowliest of the various means of transport.
We worship a God incarnate who chooses symbols of humility to embody his life and m essage.
Symbols of life style are visible and observable and in being so they are very powerful for us to emulate and follow. In short, if you want to be like Jesus, to the watching world, ride a bike.
Let?s unpack this a little more in terms of the observable. We do this by taking a fast-track back to the Baptism of Jesus.
As our Lord Jesus Christ came up from the waters of Baptism the heavens opened and a voice was heard as the Spirit descended. ?This is My beloved Son in whom I am well
p l e a s e d ?.
In short, and in real terms, when the Father sees the Son He is pleased. When the life of Christ is observed in all His symbolic role modelling, emulated by His followers, God the Father is pleased.