Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (NIV)
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples,
2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me.
3 If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
5 “Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them.
7 They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on.
8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”
11 The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Devotion:
As we approach the Easter season, let us reflect on the significance of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week. The events described in Matthew 21:1-11 hold profound truths that prepare our hearts for the ultimate victory of Easter.
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, signifying His identity as the long-awaited Messiah. The humble manner in which Jesus approached Jerusalem contrasted with the expectations of a conquering king, highlighting His mission of peace and salvation.
2. Proclamation of Kingship: The crowds welcomed Jesus with shouts of “Hosanna!” and acclamations of praise, recognizing Him as the Son of David and the long-awaited deliverer. Their exuberant display of adoration foreshadowed the heavenly chorus that would resound on Easter morning, proclaiming Christ’s victory over sin and death.
3. Hosanna: A Cry for Salvation: The word “Hosanna” means “save now” or “deliver us.” As the people hailed Jesus with this cry, they expressed their longing for deliverance and redemption. Similarly, during the Easter season, we echo their cry, acknowledging Jesus as our Savior who brings salvation and hope to all who believe in Him.
4. The Response of the City: The whole city of Jerusalem was stirred by Jesus’ entry, prompting questions about His identity and mission. In the same way, the message of Easter stirs hearts and invites people to encounter the living Christ. May we seize this opportunity to testify to the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection in our lives.
5. Jesus: The Prophet, Priest, and King: As the crowds identified Jesus as “the prophet from Nazareth,” they acknowledged His authority and significance. Indeed, Jesus is not merely a prophet but also our High Priest who intercedes for us and the King of kings who reigns in righteousness. Let us bow before Him in reverence and surrender, acknowledging His lordship over our lives.
As we meditate on the events of Palm Sunday, may we anticipate with joyful expectation the triumph of Easter morning. Let us welcome Jesus into our hearts and lives, acknowledging Him as our King and Savior, who leads us from death to life, from darkness to light. Amen.
