Scripture

Tell the people of Jerusalem,

“Look your king is coming to you.

He is riding on a donkey-

Riding on a donkey’s colt.”

Observation

Jesus and His disciples come to Bethphage near Jerusalem. He sends two of His disciples into the town to collect a donkey. This is done to fulfil a prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 that Jerusalem’s king would come in humility on a donkey.

The crowd spreads garments and palm branches on the road ahead of Him. They shout “Hosanna to the Son of David!”

People in Jerusalem ask who it is they are making a fuss about. The people in the crowd tell them it is Jesus of Nazareth, a prophet.

Application

When I first came to know Jesus, it was as the loving and compassionate Son of God. At the time I was lost and not sure of where I fitted in the world. Jesus came to me and overwhelmed me with His love and peace.

This is the Jesus we see n the gospels, and particularly in the last week of His life on earth.

Yes, He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. Yes, He will judge every single person that ever lived. Yes, He will conquer the most tyrannical of political and military rulers.

But He is the Lord of love, and He reigns in gentleness.

Jesus never coerces or instils fear.

He is firstly humble and gentle.

His followers, too, must excel in humility and gentleness. For many of us this does not come easily. We want our way and we want it now.

We follow a King who rides on a donkey not on a war horse. He lives by dying and wins by giving up everything.

Prayer

Father please help me to live a life marked by gentleness and humility. Amen.