Our scripture this morning is Matthew 21:5 (NLT).
Tell the people of Jerusalem, “Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.”
In the verses prior to this, Jesus has His disciples bring Him a donkey for His entrance into Jerusalem. The New Bible Commentary tells us that there are no other mentions in scripture of Jesus ever riding, so this is a symbolic act that Jesus wants people to see. Jesus wants people’s attention, not for Himself personally, but for His message.
In Isaiah 62:11 we read “Tell the people of Israel, ‘Look, your Savior is coming. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.’” Zechariah 9:9 tells us “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 is the fulfillment of these prophecies.
In spite of this, He is not the king the people expected, one who would throw off the Roman yoke and reign in triumph. His triumph is much larger than that, but we will have to suffer along with our Lord through this week. We know that our Redeemer lives, but it strengthens our faith to remember the sacrifice Jesus has made for us.
Loving Lord, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved through Your son, Jesus Christ. Bless us to be part of the work You do in the world. Amen.
