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And they brought [the donkey] to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. And as He rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road … His disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the Name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” (Luke 19:35-36, 37b-38)
Jesus is visiting Jerusalem for the last time, and He knows it. He’s been to this city many times before—as a newborn baby, presented to the Lord in the temple; as a boy, surprising the teachers with His understanding; again, to cleanse the temple of the traders in its courts. But this is the last time, and He’s coming to die.
So this time, Jesus comes to His own city as King and Messiah, openly. He borrows a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9. He also allows His followers to tell the truth about Him as loudly as they like, for the very first time. And they do, praising God and shouting, “Blessed is the King who comes in the Name of the Lord!”
Now the truth is out there, for anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear it. Some will believe. And others will refuse, and crucify Him—but even that will serve God’s purpose. Because Jesus will use His death to save all God’s people, anyone who is willing to put their trust in Him. And through His resurrection three days later, He will rescue us from death, bringing us into God’s heavenly Jerusalem as forgiven people of God.
WE PRAY: Lord, teach me to know and love You with all my heart. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus finally let His followers shout the truth about who He is now?
- Why does He choose a humble donkey instead of a war horse?
- How are you learning to know Jesus better?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
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