*written by Jason Stockdale

As we begin Holy Week, we want to pause to reflect on the profound significance of Palm Sunday. This day marks the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, a moment filled with both celebration and sobering truths. Let’s look at Luke 19:37-40 and uncover the timeless lessons it holds for us today.

When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:

38 “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!”

40 “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

We love all things Marvel in our house. In the movie, “The Avengers”, there is a powerful scene where an elderly man stands firm against Loki, refusing to kneel before him. His courageous stance echoes a profound truth about true kingship – one that stands in stark contrast to the world’s expectations.

At the time Jesus rode into Jerusalem, the people were waiting for their king, but the king they wanted and the Kingship of Jesus were two different things. In this narrative, Jesus, the humble King, rides into Jerusalem not on a chariot of war, but on a lowly donkey. The people hail Him as their King, yet their expectations of His kingship diverge from His true nature. Jesus didn’t come to fulfill earthly desires for power and dominance; rather, He came to establish a kingdom of love, service, and sacrificial grace.

In our world and personal lives, the tension persists. The allure of a comfortable faith, where Jesus fits neatly into our preconceived notions, does exactly what we want him to do, clashes with the reality of King Jesus, whose lordship challenges every aspect of our existence. As we think on Palm Sunday, let’s pause and ponder: Who is Jesus to us? Are we willing to relinquish our illusions of control and crown Him as our true King? Let’s recommit ourselves to living under His reign, embodying peace, love, and reconciliation in a fractured world.

I want to leave you with the words from a recent post from Pastor Benjamin Cremer, that I may illuminate the differences between the Jesus as King that I want, verses King Jesus as he is.

We want the warhorse.
Jesus rides a donkey.

We want the bird of prey.
The Holy Spirit descends as a dove.

We want the militia.
Jesus calls disciples.

We vote for Barabbas.
Jesus stands in chains.

We want the courtroom.
Jesus sets a table.

We want the gavel.
Jesus washes feet.

We want to take up swords.
Jesus takes up a cross.

We want the nation.
Jesus calls the church.

We want the roaring lion.
God comes as a slaughtered lamb.

We keep trying to arm God.
God keeps trying to disarm us.

 

In the midst of uncertainty, let’s find assurance in the unchanging truth: There is no other King but Jesus. May His grace empower us to walk faithfully in His footsteps, now and always.

Reflective Question: As we journey through Holy Week, let’s ponder: What kind of King do I truly desire? And am I willing to surrender my expectations to embrace King Jesus in His fullness?