A slight detour for this morning from my previous thoughts.
Yesterday, Sunday, was what is commonly called Palm Sunday. It is considered the start of what is called “Holy Week,” i.e. the final week of Jesus’ life here on earth. As we know, it begins with Palm Sunday and ends with the crucifixion (called Good Friday) and culminates with the Resurrection on the first day of the week.
It is historically called Palm Sunday because it is the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and the people waved palm branches, laid them on the ground, and yelled, “Hallelujah! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Mt.21; Mk.11; Lk.19; Jn.12)
Luke’s is the longest account. Each gives his perspective. But there are some similarities. The one which stands out to me is Jesus riding in on a donkey. He is being hailed as a king yet rides in on a donkey.
No conquering king or general rode in on a donkey. Nothing less than a white charger would do! it was below a person of status to ride anything less. But here is Jesus-the King of kings and Lord of lords-riding into town on a donkey. A borrowed one at that.
What a picture of humility!! The accolades flow. The praise reaches a crescendo. The religious leaders get mad. But here is Jesus riding, not a white charger, but a borrowed donkey.
Again…what humility! One act speaks volumes…for eternity.
“Father, may I exhibit humility like Jesus. When people praise me, may I accept it and act with humility and now allow it to go my head.”
There will come a day when Jesus will be riding a white horse as he leads the armies of heaven against the the powers of darkness. But this was not that time. This was a time of peace and reconciliation. A time to bring what was separated by sin together. This was a rescue mission for the souls of all mankind. I look forward to diving in more this week in preparation for the celebration to come. Thanks for kicking off the week with a solid reminder!
You’re right Ryan. This was not the time. I do look forward to that day though! What a sight that will be!!! Glad I could help kick off what I believe will be a meaningful week for you.
The ultimate image of humility . . .
Yes, Lord, let me have the same humble attitude!
Blessings, Bill!
yes it is Martha.
There is a song that I really like, by Zach Williams and one of the lines is Lord help me be a little more like Jesus and little less like me. We are made in His image, He gives us divine nature to guide us, and still I fall way short of following his attributes of grace, mercy, love and humility. Father please help me to not just walk with Jesus but to adopt his attitude of humility in every area of my life.
I’ve not heard that song Gail, mostly because I don’t listen to the radio and I confess he is not my style. But I do like those words. And your prayers is spot on.