Image from pinterest.com When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone says to you, “Why are you doing this?” just say this, “The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.” ’ They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, some of the bystanders said to them, ‘What are you doing, untying the colt?’ They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it. Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!’ Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. (Mark 11:1-11)
Just this past week, we sat near where Bethphage and Bethany used to be. They're suburbs of Jerusalem, and Jesus' actions fulfilled prophecy about the coming Messiah for Israel. As one comes to know the geography of the land, many questions have been answered, and some arise. Please keep in mind that Jesus walked everywhere He went. His ministry covered many regions of Israel and His entry into the capital city confirmed His rightful place as the Messiah, the Anointed One of God, sent to be King and Deliverer of Israel. The timing was perfect for it was God's time, and the purpose was clear; act now on behalf of God for the good of all.
Spiritually and politically, the people were ready. Some wanted the Roman presence out of their country. Others wanted to hear the truth about God and what God desired for His people. And some just wanted someone to address the problem of sin and doubt in their hearts. Jesus came at the right time with the right message.
As Jesus enters Jerusalem, the people as we read above, speak their cloaks on the street and waved palms and leafy branches from their fields and all shouted, "Hosanna! Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" These were the shouts of expectant people. Keep those in mind as by the time Friday rolls around, they would again shout, but not praises to God.
Jesus came to enter into our lives, our hearts, minds, and spirits. He came to rule and guide those who invite Him. He came to bring peace and comfort to the troubled souls of those who had not yet heard of any comfort or peace from God; and His work and purpose are as strong today as they were back then. Receive Jesus as He means to be received and become His people!
PRAYER: Loving Jesus, enter into my heart and life today as Lord and King. Make this coming week before Your triumphant entry into Jerusalem be a time of rededication and recommitment to You and Your plan. Use me as You would. Bless me into being a blessing to You. This I pray in Christ Jesus' strong name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! Share Jesus with those who have not yet met Him!
Eradio Valverde
