Day 22: The Triumphal Entry
Welcoming Jesus as King
Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:1-11
"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!'" (Matthew 21:9, NLT)
Reflection: A Humble King
The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem marks the beginning of Holy Week, a pivotal moment in His journey to the cross. Riding on a humble donkey, Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, presenting Himself as the King of peace. The crowds welcome Him with shouts of “Hosanna,” laying down their cloaks and palm branches in reverence.
This moment is both celebratory and deeply significant. While the people praise Jesus as the “Son of David,” many misunderstand the nature of His Kingdom. They anticipate a political savior, yet Jesus comes to establish a spiritual Kingdom—one rooted in love, humility, and sacrifice. The triumphal entry invites us to examine how we welcome Jesus into our lives. Do we embrace Him as the King He truly is, or do we seek Him on our own terms?
Personal Reflection:
The triumphal entry challenges me to reflect on how I welcome Jesus into my life. Do I truly submit to Him as King, or do I try to fit Him into my own expectations? This passage reminds me that Jesus’ Kingdom is not about power or prestige but about love, humility, and service. By surrendering my plans and embracing His will, I can experience the peace and joy that come from following Him fully.
Application: Welcoming Jesus as King
To fully welcome Jesus as King, we must surrender our expectations and align our hearts with His will. Here are practical ways to apply this lesson:
Recognize His Authority: Acknowledge Jesus as the Lord of your life. Submit every area—your plans, relationships, and struggles—to His authority.
Celebrate His Presence: Like the crowd shouting “Hosanna,” take time to praise Jesus for who He is and what He has done in your life.
Live Humbly: Jesus’ choice of a donkey instead of a warhorse reminds us of the importance of humility. Reflect His example in your interactions with others.
Prepare Your Heart: As Holy Week approaches, spend time in prayer and reflection. Ask Jesus to reveal any areas where you need to grow in faith and surrender.
Action Step:
Spend time in prayer today, asking Jesus to reveal any areas of your life where you need to submit to His authority. Write down one specific way you can welcome Him as King this week, whether through an act of service, prayer, or surrender.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for coming as a humble and loving King. Help me to welcome You into every area of my life with a heart of praise and surrender. Teach me to follow Your example of humility and to trust in Your perfect plan. May my life reflect Your Kingdom values and bring glory to Your name. Amen.