Come Follow the Humble King

The Triumphal Entry: Finding Meaning in Jesus's Journey to Jerusalem

There's something deeply moving about Jesus's entry into Jerusalem. It's a story that captures both triumph and humility – a moment where the divine meets the everyday in ways that still speak to us today.

The Story Unfolds

As Jesus approached Jerusalem with his disciples, he sent two of them ahead to a nearby village. "Go." he told them, “And you'll find a colt tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here." When questioned about taking the colt, they were simply to say, "The Lord needs it."

Everything happened just as Jesus had said. The disciples brought the colt, threw their cloaks over it, and Jesus sat on it. As he rode toward Jerusalem, people spread their cloaks on the road while others cut leafy branches from the fields to lay before him.

Those who walked ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!"

Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.

The King Who Comes Differently

Isn't it interesting how Jesus chose to enter Jerusalem? He could have arrived with grand fanfare – after all, he's the King of Kings. Instead, he chose a young colt that had never been ridden. This wasn't just happenstance; it was fulfilling a prophecy from Zechariah about a king coming "gentle and riding on a donkey."

This speaks volumes about Jesus's character. While the crowds expected a conquering political messiah who would overthrow Roman rule, Jesus came offering a different kind of kingdom – one built on humility, service, and love.

The Crowd's Response

The reaction of the people tells its own story. They laid down their cloaks and branches – the equivalent of rolling out the red carpet. Their shouts of "Hosanna" (which means "save us") show they recognized something special was happening.

Yet there's a bittersweet element here. Many in this same crowd would, within days, turn against Jesus. How quickly human praise can shift! This reminds us that following Jesus isn't about emotional highs but about steady commitment.

Finding Yourself in the Story

Where do you see yourself in this narrative? Perhaps you're like the disciples, faithfully following instructions that might seem strange at first. Maybe you're in the crowd, enthusiastic but not yet fully understanding. Or are you an onlooker, curious but keeping your distance?

The beauty of this story is that Jesus invites participation from everyone. Each person plays a role, whether lending a colt, offering praise, or simply witnessing.

Conclusion: The Journey Continues

This moment of Jesus entering Jerusalem wasn't the end but part of a bigger journey. He came not just to receive temporary praise but to ultimately give his life. The palm branches and "Hosannas" were just preludes to what would be the greatest act of love the world has ever known.

Jesus's entry reminds us that true kingship is found in service, and real power is demonstrated through sacrifice.

Your Turn: Making Room for the King

Today, I want to invite you to consider how you might "make way" for Jesus in your own life. Just as the crowds cleared a path and offered what they had – cloaks and branches – what areas of your life could use some clearing to allow God's presence to enter more fully?

This week, choose one area where you can intentionally make space for reflection and connection with God. It might be starting your day with a moment of quiet prayer, or perhaps setting aside time to read scripture with fresh eyes. Maybe it's serving someone in need as a way of honoring the servant king.

The crowds that day didn't just watch Jesus pass by – they participated. How will you participate in this ongoing story today?

Blessings,

Donna