Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry
Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-44, John 12:12-19
On the Sunday before His death, Jesus began His trip to Jerusalem, knowing that He would soon lay down His life for our sins. Jesus slowly and humbly, made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on the back of a young donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. The crowds welcomed Him by waving palm branches in the air and shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
On Palm Sunday, Jesus and His disciples spent the night about two miles east of Jerusalem, in Bethany, where Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha, lived.
Lord, I give You thanks, for You are good, and Your mercy is endless. Here I stand, at the start of this Holy Week remembering Jesus’ sacrifice, death, and resurrection. Help me turn from distraction and set my eyes on the One who comes in Your name, the One who opens the gates of righteousness, the One who answers when we call. I bless You, Lord, for shining Your light on me, and for sending Your Son to us, in human frailty, to walk the road we walk. Open my eyes that I may see Him coming, and praise Him with a pure heart. For the glory of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.