A Different Kind of King

“The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!’ When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, ‘who is this?’” Matthew 21:9-10

Part of Lent includes remembering the events leading to Easter. Therefore over the next few weeks our devotionals will walk us through the days leading to Jesus’ death and resurrection; beginning with the Triumphal Entry. Matthew 21:1-11 details Jesus’ arrival into Jerusalem. He sent two of his disciples to secure a donkey for him. Not a chariot or a horse, rather a humble colt. Matthew goes on to tell us that as they quietly rode into town, a large crowd gathered and began spreading cloaks and branches over the road. They did so, because they had heard that Jesus was arriving, and they knew who he was and how he had healed the sick. So as they laid their garments and branches, they praised God and sang “Hosanna to the Son of David”. Even as the crowd sang praises, Jesus’ arrival caused stirrings in the entire city, and many asked “who is this?”

The other Gospel writers add additional details about the scene but across the board they describe a humble yet joy filled arrival. Jesus’ entry didn’t include a royal parade, flaunting wealth and power. His entry wasn’t like that of an earthly king at all. Rather it was humble and personal. I can imagine that even as the people praised, they were a bit perplexed. Who was this Jesus, and how was he going to save them from their situation when he arrived so peacefully?

In that moment and all throughout his life, Jesus consistently subverts our human understanding of kingly reign. From his birth in a stable to his death and resurrection, Jesus shows us that he is a different kind of a king. Not the military or political savior that many expected. But a savior who rules with both authority and humility, with grace and justice, and with love and truth. A king who gave his own life, out of love for us.

Just as the people of the city asked “Who is this?” I invite us to ask the same question. Who is Jesus to you? What do you need to remember about who Jesus is, and what expectations need to be corrected? How can you bring praise to Jesus for who he is and what he has done in your life, this week?

Prayer: Jesus, you came to this world and entered Jerusalem in humble circumstances. You didn’t come as we would expect a king to. Yet, you brought your kingdom to earth and turned the world upside down with your grace and truth. As we walk through Lent, correct any wrong expectations we may have and remind us who you are, Amen.

Blessings in your week,

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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