Triumphal Entry

Matthew 21 tells the story of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He was greeted with shouts of "Hosanna to the Son of David!" and with people waving palm branches. This event marked the beginning of Jesus' final week before his crucifixion, and it was a pivotal moment in his ministry.

One of these occasions' key aspects is how it fulfilled the Old Testament prophecy. Matthew quotes from the prophet Zechariah, who had foretold that the King would come to Jerusalem "humble and mounted on a donkey" (Matthew 21:5; Zechariah 9:9). Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey was a clear sign that he was the long-awaited King, the Messiah who would deliver God's people.

Another important aspect of this occasion is the way that it revealed the hearts of the people who were present. Some saw Jesus as the promised King and greeted Him with joy and adoration. Others, however, were threatened by His authority and felt that He was a threat to their power.

As we read in Matthew 21:15-16, "And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased, And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?"

As we reflect on the triumphal entry, let us remember that Jesus is the promised King who came to deliver us from sin and death. Let us examine our hearts and ask ourselves whether we recognize Jesus as our King and Lord. May we be like those who welcomed Jesus with joy and adoration, and may we give Him the honor and praise He deserves?