Daily devotional · April 2
The King on a Donkey
“As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and as soon as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks, ‘Why are you doing this?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it and will return it shortly.’” So they went and found the colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. They untied it, and some who were standing there asked, “Why are you untying the colt?” The disciples answered as Jesus had instructed them, and the people gave them permission. Then they led the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, and He sat on it. Many in the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut from the fields. The ones who went ahead and those who followed were shouting: “Hosanna!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest!””
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem, the crowd spread cloaks and branches and shouted for the coming kingdom. But look at what he chose to ride: a borrowed colt, not a war horse. He arrived as a king who comes in peace, and the people who cheered would soon be disappointed that he did not overthrow Rome. Many of us also welcome Jesus warmly while quietly hoping he will do what we expect. The story invites us to receive the king he actually is, gentle, humble and headed toward the cross for us. It is a good week to slow down and walk toward Easter on purpose. Today, set aside ten minutes to read one of the gospel accounts of this last week, and ask yourself one honest question: am I welcoming Jesus on my terms, or on his?
Prayer
Jesus, my humble King, I welcome You as You are. Teach me to follow where You lead. Amen.