Palm Sunday is a day that commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem riding on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Matthew records Jesus’ procession into Jerusalem as the fulfilment of prophecy from Zechariah, “Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
The imagery of Jesus riding into the city of Jerusalem must’ve evoked a stir in the crowd, as his entry into Jerusalem somewhat mirrored the posture of a conquering King coming to take their place on the throne. Yet, Jesus didn’t ride in with a legion of soldiers and chariots and chained up prisoners of war. He came into Jerusalem with meekness, gentleness, and humility, riding in on a donkey.
Palm Sunday marks the start of what’s called Holy Week in our church calendar. It’s a day to celebrate, and to shout out “Hallelujah, and Hosanna!” but it’s also a day to deeply reflect on Jesus our king being the crucified king.
John Mark McMillan points out the interfacing tensions of Holy Week well in his song: Death in his Grave:
On Friday a thief
On Sunday a king
Laid down in grief
But woke with the keys
Of hell on that day
First born of the slain
The man Jesus Christ laid
Death in his grave.
You can view the livestreamed service HERE.
