Read Luke 19:28-44
Walking with Jesus would have been quite the adventure. Now Jesus is resolute as he begins his final journey toward Jerusalem. We begin that journey with him over the next few days known as “Holy Week,” or here in Mexico it’s a big deal called “Semana Santo.”
Since moving to Mexico, I have made a much bigger attempt to nurture my own personal walk through the season of Lent, which climaxes with Easter Sunday. That may sound a little odd coming from a pastor’s wife. My memories of those days serving a church are precious, but Lent was often stressful as church leaders. There was just so much emphasis on the programming and extra worship times to prepare for. I’m finally experiencing the beauty of connecting with my Savior without all of the “work” stuff distracting me.
This story about Jesus’ approach to Jerusalem is so familiar. Since I was a child (and that was many moons ago) I have accumulated memories, re-enactments, and lots and lots of palm branches! This year, what more do you see happening in the story?
Truly let yourself be transported back as if you’re one of the disciples trekking to Jerusalem. You’ve seen so much. Some of these experiences have changed lives dramatically. It’s so hard to believe, but you’ve seen it with your own eyes so you know it’s true. And now Jesus tells you to go fetch a donkey. A donkey.
Would you wonder why? How would you feel when you’re reminded that the Scriptures tell us in Zechariah 9:9: “Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt.” Jesus was destined to ride into Jerusalem so the king could be seen on his donkey. Jesus was not the kind of king they were expecting, so he had to make it real obvious.
Rejoice! That’s what the prophecy suggests, and that’s what the people did when they saw Jesus coming toward them. In respect they laid down their coats. They shouted their praises. The welcome Jesus received was palpable. But what a king! This King Jesus humbly rode on a donkey, not a big white stallion as any military king would ride. Can you sense the humility in Jesus? And to see prophecy fulfilled, what an honor!
One of my favorite lines from this reading is when Jesus spoke about his spirited followers, to those “blind” Pharisees, “If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!” That tells me Jesus likes our enthusiasm for him. He loves our praise and thanksgiving!
In this passage, we see such deep emotion from Jesus when he cries for Jerusalem. Amidst the joyful cries and shouts of praise, it’s like Jesus tunes it all out. He knows what lies ahead. His mission on earth is coming to a bloody end. He sees Jerusalem ahead, his precious home away from home. Jesus’ focus on Jerusalem is resolute!
Did Jesus feel defeat because the people were still so blind? Did Jesus feel overwhelmed with the showering of attention and praise? Did Jesus wish he had more time?
Take some time today to reflect on Jesus’ final days. Remember that everything he saw and felt was because of his deep love and affection for you.
Let’s pray …
What a roller coaster of emotions you endured for me, Lord. I am forever grateful. It’s hard to wrap my head around how much you have done and continue to do for me every day. I look forward to taking an honest look at my relationship with you during this holiest of weeks. Speak to my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
