Jesus is preparing for his entrance into Jerusalem... We shall return to this shortly, but let's focus for just a moment on why He decided to return there in the first place, and what occurred afterwards.
But in order to gain a better appreciation of this episode, I believe it’s important to first get an idea of Jesus’ mindset at the time. A lot had already happened, and the pace was only starting to pick up.
Jesus knew why he was sent here, and what his purpose was. He said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). Also, "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).
He had decided that it was time to finish his Galilean ministry, return to Jerusalem, and declare it as His center of operations. This is opposite of what Jesus did earlier in his ministry. At that time he exited Judea and headed to Galilee (John 4:3).
Thus, Jesus' ministerial activities were mostly performed in and around Galilee. Now, it became crucial that he go back to Jerusalem. It was there that he was to make His final plea to the Jewish leaders; submitting the kingdom message yet again (Luke 17:20-21).
A week prior to his death, burial, and resurrection Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey colt (Zechariah 9:9; John 12:14–15). For those who had followed him the past three and a half years, this was the beginning of an exciting week full of high expectations.
They truly believed Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah, who had been mentioned by the Old Testament prophets. Their King had finally arrived and all Jerusalem looked forward, with hopeful anticipation, to living with Him forever.
Sadly, the same people who were now proclaiming Him as king, would be rejecting him by the end of the week. Eventually, they would condemn Him to crucifixion on the Cross (Matthew 27:35; Mark 15:24, Luke 23:33, John 19:18).
I have included a short, video presentation below that will help explain the significance of Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry and why we celebrate it. This clip references Luke, chapters 18-19, for your own research.
Synopsis: Palm Sunday recognizes Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem. Palm branches were laid out in his path as he rode in on a donkey colt. This event marks the beginning of Holy Week, before his arrest on Holy Thursday, and crucifixion on Good Friday.
Video: Galilee to Jerusalem: The Last Week of Jesus, Day 1
by the Center for Holy Lands Studies
Scripture: John 12:13; Acts 2:38; Psalm 118:25-26; Matthew 21:5; Luke 19:38
Prayer: "Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!" - Psalm 31:24
Love, peace, and happiness!
Kaitlyn
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