The Humble King: Jesus Riding a Donkey into Jerusalem

Introduction: Good day, dear readers. Today, we reflect on a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus Christ—the day He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. This event, celebrated as Palm Sunday, is filled with deep spiritual significance. It showcases Jesus as the humble King, fulfilling prophecy and revealing profound truths about His mission and character.

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Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:1-11 (KJV) "And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee."

I. Fulfillment of Prophecy:

Zechariah’s Prophecy:

• Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 (KJV): "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass."
• This act demonstrates Jesus' intentional fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, affirming His identity as the promised Messiah.

Symbol of Peace:

• Unlike a warrior king who might ride a horse, Jesus chooses a donkey, symbolizing peace and humility.
• His entrance signifies that His kingdom is not of this world, but a spiritual reign characterized by peace and servitude.

II. The Response of the People:

Hosanna in the Highest:

• The crowds shout "Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest."
• "Hosanna" means "save now," reflecting the people's hope for a messianic deliverance.

Spreading Garments and Branches:

• The act of spreading garments and palm branches signifies honor and respect, a gesture reserved for royalty.
• It reflects the recognition of Jesus as a king, albeit not fully understanding the nature of His kingship.

III. The Significance of the Donkey:

Humility and Servanthood:

• Jesus' choice of a donkey highlights His humility and commitment to serving others, in contrast to the expectations of a conquering king.
• Philippians 2:7-8 (KJV) says, "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."

Accessible Savior:

• A donkey is a common animal, accessible to all, symbolizing that Jesus came for everyone, not just the elite.
• His entrance on a donkey signifies He is approachable and His desire to be close to the common people.

IV. The Ultimate Purpose:

The Path to the Cross:

• Jesus' triumphant entry is the beginning of the Passion Week, leading to His crucifixion.
• His acceptance of the path to the cross demonstrates His obedience to the Father’s will and His love for humanity.

King of Kings:

• Though He enters humbly, Jesus is the King of Kings, whose reign is eternal and whose kingdom is established in the hearts of believers.
• Revelation 19:16 (KJV) declares, "And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords."

Conclusion: The image of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey is a profound depiction of His humility, peace, and fulfillment of prophecy. It calls us to recognize Him as our humble King and to emulate His example of servanthood. As we reflect on this event, let us open our hearts to His reign, welcoming Him with sincere "Hosannas" and living lives that honor His sacrifice and love.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who entered Jerusalem as a humble King. Help us to understand the significance of His journey and to follow His example of humility and service. May we always honor Him as our Savior and King, welcoming Him into our hearts and lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.