When we see the political candidates on television, very often they are surrounded by enthusiastic supporters. It’s typical to see the crowds cheering for their candidate. If he or she wins, there is more cheering and celebrating.
This may be similar to the cheering and celebrating that multitudes of Jews expressed when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey just five days before his crucifixion. Traditionally, we have called that event the Triumphal Entry. But, it wasn’t the typical triumphant procession that conquering Generals led. It was more like a parade to honor the Jews’ Prophet and King, Jesus of Nazareth.
Here’s the way Luke describes it. As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. 37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 38 “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” (Luke 19:36-38 NIV)
In this scene, Jesus’ disciples surrounded Him. Then, scores of other admirers began to follow the procession. When the disciples started singing and praising God, the multitude chimed in. It was incredible.
Having attended gatherings of thousands of Christ-followers who were singing together, I can testify that I felt an amazing thrill. It gave me a sense of freedom to express my praise to God with all my heart.
I suspect that the growing throng of voices at the Triumphal Entry was magnified when they entered the walled city of Jerusalem. I’ll bet people throughout the city could hear them and they came running to find out what was happening.
What an exciting event! The multitude paid tribute to Jesus, the Messiah.
But, five days later, Jesus of Nazareth was arrested and charged with heresy and treason. The cheering crowds were gone. He was convicted and put to death in a horrific execution. His enemies won. The triumphant King of the Jews was a dead loser.
Of course, that’s not the end of the story. On the third day, He arose victoriously over death and the grave. He was triumphant, again. His enemies couldn’t stop Him.
So today, we can join that parade in honor of the King of the Jews, Who is also the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We can sing praises to the miracle working Prophet and High Priest, Jesus, the Son of God-victoriously resurrected!
Remember, God loves you and so do I.
Phil
Copyright © 2010 Philip Walter