(This can be listened to here) It began well enough small at first but after some healings and moments of deep caring soon the crowds began to grow. As did the numbers calling themselves disciples. Those were heady days. He embodied God’s love for all who crossed his path even Samaritans. He lived the kingdom of God here on earth in the here and now. People touched by compassion, God’s generosity there for all. God’s promises lived out. God’s covenant to Israel fulfilled. We touched earth renewed and hoped. Sure, some left when the teaching got too difficult - I mean - who wants to eat bodies and drink blood – and some left as the tension grew – no one likes hanging around on a cross. But mostly we stayed. It all looked so promising as Jesus rode the donkey down into the Kidron. We cheered and shouted “Hosanna to the Son of David.” the villagers cloaked and palm branched our way. Jesus the king riding on ...