Matthew 21:1-11
“When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, ‘Who is this?’ The crowds were saying, ‘This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.’” vss. 10-11
There had likely been a large number of pilgrims making the trek from Galilee to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. They traveled in caravans for protection and safety, and on the way they often had conversations and random encounters. Doubtless those traveling with Jesus, and not just the inner circle of disciples, had many chances to listen to him talk about kingdom living and maybe experience his healing touch. They were impressed and as they approached the city over the Mount of Olives and through the Kidron Valley, the crowd of pilgrims began to celebrate. They had come to believe that this march was the beginning of God’s redemption of Israel, that Jesus was the long-awaited messiah. But people in the city were confused and wondered what was going on. If this was the coming king, why was he riding a donkey? And the fact that he was from Nazareth impressed no one…no one famous had ever come from there. But everyone loves a parade and it was an exciting day, an auspicious beginning for a week that changed the world. As it turned out the crowd was right. This was the coming of the king…but the donkey was a sign that his reign would be different. And by the end of the week, many in the crowd were not only confused; they were deeply disappointed!
Thought for the Day: What did Jesus’ choice of a donkey signify?
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