Jerusalem, Jerusalem! She who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her. How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, yet you were not willing!

Jesus has incredible love and compassion for Jerusalem. He is referring to the people rather than the physical city. In saying "yet you were not willing" Jesus demonstrates that the city has a collective free will. Jesus longs to take care of them as a mother cares for her chicks but they refuse on the whole. A few people are willing but the majority is not. Most of this unwillingness is laid at the feet of the scribes and Pharisees as shown in verses 13-17 as they are blind leaders of the people.

I must therefore realize that Jesus longs for cities other than just Jerusalem. He longs for my city to know Him and to follow Him. My city has collectively rejected Him but that doesn't mean great change can't occur. I must stand firm with my brothers and sisters in Christ as we stand in the gap pleading for our city. We must ask GOD to open the eyes of the people here so that the collective will may change. We need wisdom and boldness to be able to create this change.

GOD of mercy I praise You for second chances. There is none who deserves glory as You do. Please forgive me when I act like the situation here in the city is hopeless. Please fill me with Your wisdom and boldness. Open the eyes of this city that she may know You. Please give me You heart for this city. I want to love her as You do. Please give me Your eyes so that I may see the hurt as You do so that I may intercede as I should. Give me the strength to bear up under the sorrow and brokenness I find. I cannot do this without You and Your aid. I surrender to You. Please mold me into who You want me to be for Your honor and glory. I bless Your name and declare that You alone are holy and worthy to be praised - in Jesus' name amen.

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