Pastor reminded us of the blessings that come with giving. Proverbs 11:24-26. He then moved into his Palm Sunday Sermon reminded us that this event was the beginning of what Christians know as “Passion week”. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus sets Christianity apart from all other religions. After the entry on Sunday, the next day Jesus clears out money changers in the temple courtyard. The next he gives the Olivet discourse at the Mount of Olives. Nothing is known of a Wednesday event. On Thursday Jesus washes the feet of his disciples and shares the last supper before being betrayed by Judas. Jesus is crucified on Friday, has a conversation with Satan in hell on Saturday and on Sunday he is resurrected!
Palm Sunday celebrates the ‘Triumphal Entry’ into Jerusalem, but it does not unfold as many of the followers expected. Instead of riding on a white horse as a conquering king, Jesus rides in on a lowly colt as a representation of humbleness and peace. Matthew 21:1-11.
Many in the city asked ‘Who is this?’ Matthew 21:10.
There was a certain mystery around Jesus. When he spoke with wisdom in the synagogue, some were amazed, but others were offended. Mark 6:1-3. Christ’s true identity was concealed until the right time. Matthew 16:13-16. Jesus asked his disciples ‘Who do people say I am?’ Then “Who do you say I am?” When Peter answers, Jesus says that his identity was revealed by the Father because religious people didn't know him.
Conquering kings come in on a white horse. But Jesus comes in on lowly colt. Zechariah 9:9. He is king of kings and Lord of lords, but he was here to show humility, love and service.
Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, giving them an example of service. John 13:12-17.
Jesus submitted to the Will of his father. Matthew 26:39 39 “Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
Jesus tells his followers to find rest in him because he is “gentle and humble in heart”. Matthew 11:28-30.
Jesus has told us we need to submit and take lower place. Luke 14:25-27.
He also told us to be like-minded, with love and humility. Philippians 2:1-8.
Humble yourselves, and God will lift you up in due time. James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6.
We need to recognize that Easter resurrection doesn't happen unless Jesus humbles himself to die on the cross.
All Christ followers need to be submissive to God’s will; humbly showing God's love to one another.
We know who He is. Who are we? Do you know who you are?
I have always liked the message that the rocks would cry out if the religious leaders tried to silence the crowds as Jesus entered the city.
I came upon this song today and it speaks to (and for) me.
Matthew 21:8-11 NIV
8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”
11 The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Lord help all of us to be humble servants to your will.
