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Matthew 21:1-11 (Common English Bible)
When they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus gave two disciples a task. 2 He said to them, “Go into the village over there. As soon as you enter, you will find a donkey tied up and a colt with it. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, say that their master needs them.” He sent them off right away. 4 Now this happened to fulfill what the prophet said, 5 Say to Daughter Zion, “Look, your king is coming to you, humble and riding on a donkey, and on a colt the donkey’s offspring.” 6 The disciples went and did just as Jesus had ordered them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and laid their clothes on them. Then he sat on them.
8 Now a large crowd spread their clothes on the road. Others cut palm branches off the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds in front of him and behind him shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!Hosanna in the highest!” 10 And when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up. “Who is this?” they asked. 11 The crowds answered, “It’s the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Summary:
Lent is a season where Christians commit to a season of fasting and prayer. When we fast, we lose comfort and convenience, but we find greater faith and grow closer to God.
On Palm Sunday, we remember when Jesus rides the donkey and colt into Jerusalem. This fulfills the scriptures and show he is the promised Messiah. It was the responsibility of those in positions of high authority to “make way” for the coming Messiah. When they would not step up, “everyday people” banded together to lay down palm branches and proclaim “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” When those who are supposed to be our leaders do not step up, don’t wait for them, “make way” for God’s hope, justice & love for Jesus is here!
Reflection Questions:
- What is a word, phrase or image that comes to mind when you read or hear the text?
- What does this scripture teach you about making a way?
- What does God invite you to do, change or be through this passage?