Jesus came riding triumphantly into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday... the picture of success. But then, just a few days later, he was nailed to a cross like a common criminal. What happened? What do we make of this? Was Jesus a success? What do you think?

Well, for many years now, we in America... have been highly “success-conscious,” “success-oriented.” And most have agreed with Webster’s definition: “Success is the attainment of wealth and fame.” Think about it. Isn’t it true that when we think of success... we immediately pull out names like Rockefeller, Kennedy, Ford, Du Pont, or Trump. They symbolize the “sweet smell of success.” But, Webster was wrong. Money and fame are not enough. In fact, some who look highly successful are actually quite miserable.

Some years ago, a well-dresse…