Palm Sunday: Make Way For The Champion
Accepting Jesus as Our Awaited Champion
The air was filled with expectation as the gates of Jerusalem opened to let in a lowly figure riding a donkey, and the earth shook with the shouts of "Hosanna!" Palm Sunday, which ushers in Holy Week, is a significant day as it commemorates Jesus Christ's victorious entry into Jerusalem. This day serves as a vivid, living reminder of the coming of our eagerly anticipated champion, Jesus.
An Unmatched Champion
A crucial fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, the scene of Jesus entering Jerusalem (Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:5) presents Jesus as the Messiah, Israel’s long awaited King. But unlike the ancient conquerors or the modern heroes that we could have envisioned, Jesus's kingdom is based on peace and humility and love. This introduces a humble Savior King who strives to conquer hearts and lift spirits, not territories or wealth, which contrasts dramatically with the expectations Israel had of a warrior monarch.
The Victory of Service and Sacrifice
Victory in the perspective of the world frequently entails conquering adversaries, amassing fortune, or today becoming a social media influencer. Jesus, however, offered a fresh perspective on victory via His teachings and example. "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45) Jesus defeated sin and death by the cross and a crown of thorns rather than swords and shields. All who believe and follow Him can now experience a new found freedom and salvation brought about by this triumph (John 3:16).
A Beacon of Hope and Salvation
Jesus's arrival in Jerusalem represented more than simply His death; it was also the realization of God's promise to save humanity. Jesus provided hope and eternal life to everyone by bridging the divide between humanity and God through His sacrifice on the cross. Through this act of unfathomable love (John 3:16), Jesus is shown to be the ultimate champion, fighting for our everlasting peace and reconciliation with God rather than fleeting glory and temporal conquests.
The Call to Follow
Jesus path was to live a life of selflessness, humility, and unconditional love. We are reminded that to accept Jesus as our champion entails more than simply admitting His triumph as we observe Palm Sunday and consider His life. It challenges us to follow in His footsteps by taking up our own crosses and committing to a life of love and service (Matthew 16:24). This appeal should force us to re-evaluate our goals, principles, and understanding of leadership and success. We should ask ourselves do our values align with His?
A Time for Celebration and Reflection
On Palm Sunday, as they did so many years ago. We celebrate joyfully, maybe not by waving palm branches but by lifting and waving hands and a singing worship songs and hymn’s to Jesus as we welcome him into our lives and hearts. However, this is also a moment to give careful thought to the character of His reign and the way He chose to save us. As we exclaim "Hosanna!" let us keep in mind the type of monarch we are honoring—a king whose throne was a cross and who preferred a crown of thorns to one of gold. May this thought strengthen our resolve to follow His example and live according to Jesus' teachings every day.
Embracing Jesus Today
The lessons learned on Palm Sunday are as relevant today as they were over two thousand years ago. In a world that often celebrates power, wealth, and individualism, Jesus's example of humility, service, and love stand out as a beacon of hope and a call to action. Embracing Jesus as our champion means accepting his message of repentance, and faith in Him, denying ourselves and following him and living by His example, seeking to serve rather than be served, and prioritizing love, peace, and justice in our interactions with others. As you reflect on these this Holy week that leads points to our ultimate redemption, remember that the ultimate champion has provided a way of salvation to all those who believe. As He rode into the Jerusalem so many years ago, let him ride into the throne of your hearts as you place your faith in Him today for salvation.
