Message Notes: Reflecting on prior years, recall a favorite memory from Eastertime and Holy Week. What made it special? What have you observed in mainstream media and news outlets related to Jesus this time of year? How is he presented? Our teaching focus today ponders this Q: Who is Jesus really—his character, his heart, and his potential influence? Read Luke 19:28-40. What are your top four or five personal observations? What stands out to you about this unique scene and Jesus’ character? Give additional focus to vs. 39-40. What’s the Pharisees’ tone and issue? What’s Jesus’ response and why? Recall one of your favorite characters from a favorite book or movie. What was complex about her/his character? Read Exodus 34:6-7. What do you learn about God’s wondrous complexity? Return to Luke 19, now focusing on vs. 41-44. What further insights do these verses show us about Jesus’ heart? For bonus insights, explore John 11:30-46. What do you learn about Jesus’ heart and character? Compose a personal response to Jesus in heart-felt prayer, in light of the robust mix that makes up his heart. How will you respond to him today and heading into Holy Week? Get Ready for Next Week: For Easter Sunday and start of our new series, Graves into Gardens, read each day from John 19:38-20:18 & Luke 24:36-49.