From The Desk of:

The True Meaning of Jesus' Entry into Jerusalem

 As we reflect on the events of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, captured in John 12:12-15, it's crucial to understand the profound significance of this moment. A great multitude gathered for the Passover feast welcomed Jesus with palm branches and joyous cries of "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! The King of Israel!" This scene, filled with anticipation and excitement, reflects the mixed perceptions of who Jesus was and what He represented.

 Riding on a humble donkey, Jesus exemplified His role as the Prince of Peace, emphasizing His intention to bring spiritual salvation rather than physical deliverance. His choice of mount—a donkey—signaled His humble approach to kingship, contrasting sharply with their expectations of grandeur.

 At this time, about 2.5 million people were in Jerusalem, and the blood of over 250,000 sacrificial lambs would soon flood the temple, symbolizing their deep need for atonement. Yet, amidst this ritualistic shedding of blood, Jesus embodied the ultimate sacrifice, referred to as the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29).

 As they shouted "Hosanna," they were calling for deliverance. Misunderstanding the nature of Jesus' mission can lead us to a similar pursuit of temporary freedom while neglecting our deepest spiritual needs. It's easy to desire freedom in a worldly sense, to do as we please, but often, this desire leads to enslavement rather than liberation.

In our personal journeys, acknowledging our greatest need—spiritual salvation—must precede our immediate concerns. Jesus' entrance set the stage for His ultimate sacrifice, revealing that while He offers deliverance, it is a deliverance rooted in love, grace, and eternal life. Sometimes, what we deem immediate can put us at odds with God because it redirects our emotions and actions.  Regardless of what they expected, Jesus would first give them what they needed and fulfill the prophecy simultaneously (Gen. 49:10-12). 

 All of Jerusalem has come to meet Jesus, but many have their reasons. I trust that if you were there, just like your faithful service to Him today, you would be in line waiting to see the Lord because you love Him, not just to get something out of Him.  As Jesus entered the city, ultimately, He was crucified for the sins of the world; without knowing, they beheld God's gift/sacrifice to the world.

Courtney Henderson