Day 1: Palm Sunday

Day 1: The Triumphal Entry

Read in the Scriptures: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19

The last week of Jesus’ life was especially important to the disciples and early Christians, so all four Gospels focus on this time. The story of the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem is a day of celebration for the followers of Jesus. They are shouting and celebrating and raising the roof!

The story reminds us of the importance of having a heart that welcomes and receives Jesus as the Messiah, the God-anointed King who sets the world aright. He is the King who comes to heal, restore, and grant freedom to those who have suffered from fallenness and sin in the world. He brings joy and light and victory to all who come to him. When Jesus is asked about the Messiah, he quotes Isaiah 61 which describes the coming of this joyous King.

Before they are plunged into the horror of Good Friday, the followers of Jesus spend the best week of their lives with him in Jerusalem. Here is Jesus in his prime: exuberant, bold, teaching with authority.  On Palm Sunday, there is no doubt, embarrassment, or timidity. His followers receive him openly and joyously. Yet they do so under a cloud – Jesus is not popular with everyone. A growing conspiracy looms around him.

Jesus is still controversial in our world today. But like those first followers, our call is to receive, welcome, and celebrate Jesus boldly and openly as God’s chosen one, the Messiah who comes to save the world. Will you find a way to do this in your life today? Will you raise your voice to welcome him, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” We need to be able to rejoice in Jesus. If we can’t, how will the world come to know and love him? Will you turn towards him with your whole heart and welcome him as your King?

 

What does it mean for Jesus to be the King of your life? Write down three things that having Jesus as your King means to you. Then spend some time in prayer, thanking Jesus for being those in your life. Make today your own personal Triumphal Entry, when you welcome Jesus into your heart with joy!