The Gospel of Mark: Entry into Jerusalem

When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.’” They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it. Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting,

“Hosanna!
  Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
  Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. ~ Mark 11:1-11


As I prepare this particular devotion, we are only days away from Palm Sunday. But you will be reading this after Palm Sunday.

I've always viewed this scene as Jesus giving the people what they want - but in a way that isn't exactly what they are expecting, or even hoping for.

He is their king. And the is what they've been waiting for. A king to deliver them from Rome: a king to save them.

Hosanna! Save us!

But he doesn't come with warriors or golden chariots. That type of pageantry was saved for Pilate, who likely was coming into Jerusalem around the same time.

Instead he comes simply. On a colt. Lowly even.

A servant king.

Not a king with military might or pomp and glory.

A king the people didn't even understand they needed.

While Palm Sunday will be behind you as you read this, do you remember the feeling of waving your palm branches in anticipation of the King who saves?


Holy God, thank you for the gospel - the good news - of your Son. Open my mind and heart to this good news and enliven me with your Spirit of servanthood that I might share this good news with a world in need. Amen


Engagement Question:


What is the element of this famous passage that has always struck a chord with you?

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