Palm Sunday Reflection
Jesus came to serve. Suffer. And give His life for our sins. Jesus came to Jerusalem. Not for glory. But to fulfill God’s plan and purpose. We give thanks. That He was aiming for a “tough target” and hit the bullseye.
Collect for Palm Sunday -Almighty and everlasting God the Father, who sent Your Son to take our nature upon Him and to suffer death on the cross that all mankind should follow the example of His great humility, mercifully grant that we may both follow the example of our Savior Jesus Christ in His patience and also have our portion in His resurrection; through Jesu Christ our Lord,
Jesus was cheered and celebrated as He entered the city of Jerusalem, riding on a donkey.
Jesus had a different goal in mind than what others thought He should be aiming for. He wasn’t just taking things the easy way. He knew that His job would be the hardest thing possible, but that it would be worth more than anything else.
On Palm Sunday. Jesus came into the city of Jerusalem. He was on a donkey. Showing that He came in humble peace.
People had heard about Jesus. And were excited to see Him. They expected that He might save them from political oppression. They wanted Him to rise up and help them. They cheered “Hosanna!” Which means “save us!” They waved palm branches. Like waving flags in a parade. These people wanted Jesus to have an end goal. To fix all their problems.
But that was not the kind of salvation Jesus planned to bring. He knew what was coming. He knew that He had a tougher target to hit. He would have to suffer. Experience immense pain. And be killed. His end goal was the cross.
He also recognized that this was the Father’s plan and purpose. And that He was going to rescue not just the people of Jerusalem, but all people.
And what wonderful news this is! We should rejoice that Jesus did not aim for an easy task. But was willing to suffer and die. He had a painful and difficult goal to reach. And He did it. With His blood. He freed us from sin and death forever. We can give thanks to God every day for saving us.
Like that first Palm Sunday we can offer Jesus both our prayers and praise
Prayer: Lord. Thank you for your marvelous plans. Thank you for sending Jesus and giving Him important purpose. Help us to trust you and remind us you are near. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you for your love and care.
Image "Hosana" by artist Ed Riojas, copyright Higher Things
Collect for Palm Sunday, Lutheran Service Book copyright 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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