Scripture: Mark 11:1-11 (NIV)
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples,
2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.
3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’”
4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it,
5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?”
6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go.
7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it.
8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields.
9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.
Devotion:
As we journey through Holy Week, let us pause to reflect on the profound significance of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, as depicted in Mark 11:1-11. This event serves as a prelude to the ultimate victory of Easter, revealing essential truths about Jesus’ identity and mission.
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem riding on a colt fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which declared that the Messiah would come humbly, riding on a donkey. This deliberate action underscored Jesus’ role as the long-awaited Savior and King, fulfilling the promises of Scripture.
2. Hosanna: A Cry of Praise and Salvation: The crowds welcomed Jesus with shouts of “Hosanna,” an expression of praise and adoration meaning “Save now!” In their cries, we hear the longing of hearts for deliverance and redemption. As we approach Easter, may we join our voices with theirs, acknowledging Jesus as our Savior and King.
3. The Coming Kingdom: The people’s proclamation, “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David,” points to their expectation of Jesus establishing a kingdom of righteousness and peace. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus inaugurated the kingdom of God, where sin is defeated, and eternal life is offered to all who believe.
4. Jesus: The Messiah-King: As Jesus entered Jerusalem, He did so not as a conquering warrior but as a humble servant-king. His kingdom was not of this world, but it brought salvation and reconciliation between God and humanity. May we, like the crowds, acknowledge Jesus as our Messiah-King, surrendering our lives to His rule and reign.
5. The Temple Encounter: After entering Jerusalem, Jesus went to the temple and observed everything. This act foreshadows His cleansing of the temple, where He overturned the tables of the moneychangers and declared the true purpose of God’s house. As we prepare for Easter, let us allow Jesus to cleanse and renew our hearts, making them temples of His Holy Spirit.
As we reflect on the events of Palm Sunday, let us anticipate with hope and joy the culmination of Holy Week in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. May His triumphal entry into Jerusalem remind us of His victory over sin and death, offering us the gift of salvation and eternal life. Amen.
