Station 1: Triumphal Entry
Matthew 21:1-11
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
5 “Say to Daughter Zion,
‘See, your king comes to you,
gentle and riding on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. 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[b] to the Son of David!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Hosanna[d] 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.”
FOR FURTHER READING:
Zechariah 9:9
REMEMBER
For centuries, the people of God awaited their King. They knew what to look for - a righteous and victorious King riding on a lowly donkey. (see Zechariah 9:9). Here was Jesus, a Jewish rabbi, simple and humble, entering through the gates of Jerusalem on a colt, and the people laid down palm leaves and cloaks to honor Him.
As Jesus approached Jerusalem, crowds of people welcomed Him, joyfully shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David!” The street was explosive with hope. Waving palm branches, the people shouted, ”Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.”
And still, there was a violent whisper among those who were skeptical. Could this really be who we’ve been waiting for? Why would our almighty King come to us in this manner? They started questioning – “Who is this?” What everyone could agree on was this, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
This triumphal entry marks the beginning of Holy Week, a week celebrating the awe and wonder, trial and triumph, pain and rejoicing of Jesus’ journey to the cross. Let this mark the beginning of a time with Jesus where you might find greater understanding, hope, and redemption as you reflect on the goodness and glory of our Savior.
RECOGNIZE
The entire town erupted in celebration as Jesus arrived, anticipating the freedom their King would bring! This term, “Hosanna” was often used specifically in reference to those delivered from oppression. A deep wave of relief filled those who believed the moment they saw Jesus riding in on that donkey – a lowly, humble, peaceful King who would change everything.
Do you remember the first time you experienced the love and freedom of Jesus? Take time to recall the moment, and praise Him for His promises fulfilled.
When the people encountered Jesus, their hearts were stirred and some wondered, “Who is this?” This is one of the most important questions we will ever answer. Who is Jesus to you? Do you know Him as your personal Lord and Savior, Redeemer, and Friend? Who is He to you today, right now?
RECEIVE
As you encounter Jesus on this journey, ask Him to stir your heart and see the reality of who He really is to you daily. Not sure where to start praying? Start with something simple like the prayer below, but feel free to let your conversation with God wander in honest connection.
Jesus, stir up my heart and remind me of who You are. I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God! Thank You for meeting us where we are, choosing the simple and humble path to meet us so we could know You and be with You. Guide me in Your presence today.
