Jesus’ Triumphal Entry

“Hosanna” means to “save now,” and in this time, palm branches were a sign of victory and rejoicing. The Jewish people of this time had endured years of difficult, heart-breaking oppression from the Roman government that ruled them. Based on their interpretation of Old Testament prophecies, the Messiah would deliver them from the foreign government and reestablish Israel as being their own sovereign nation once again. We know on this side of history that Jesus was there to do just that, except in a much bigger way than the people realized.

The people saw their greatest need as needing to be delivered from their harsh Roman rulers. And while they were oppressive, Jesus was going to use the brutality of this government to fill a greater need the people weren’t aware they had: forgiveness of their sins. Sin is disobedience to God’s Law. Everyone has sinned and is in need of saving (Romans 3:23). Because everyone has disobeyed God, we’re deserving of punishment and eternal separation from Him. However, God, knowing we could do nothing to save ourselves, sent His Son to pay a debt we could not pay. Jesus would ultimately sacrifice Himself willingly on the cross to bridge the gap that existed between us and God because of our sin. Through Jesus humbling Himself, through the laying down of His life, He removed the barrier that existed between us and God. Our relationship with God was restored and the penalty for our disobedience was paid!

God, thank You for sending Your Son to pay a debt I could not pay. I pray that I would remember to always see You as the rightful King You are, and not the genie I sometimes treat You as. Forgive me for when I have the wrong perspective. Help me to honor You as Lord in every area of my life and to have an attitude of humility as You did in serving others. Amen.