A Palm Sunday Reflection (Sermon Blog)
As Palm Sunday approaches, we remember the day Jesus entered Jerusalem not as a warrior on a stallion, but as a humble King on a donkey. In Matthew 21:1–11, we find a moment rich with meaning—prophetic, symbolic, and deeply personal.
Let’s look a little deeper at what made this moment so powerful for the people then—and for us today.
Why All Four Gospels Told This Story
Most events in Jesus’ life are told by one or two Gospel writers. But this scene? It’s told by all four—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Why?
Because Palm Sunday was more than a parade—it was a prophetic declaration of who Jesus truly is.
The Prophetic Foundation: This Was No Accident
Palm Sunday wasn’t a spontaneous flash mob. It was fulfillment.
Over 500 years earlier, Zechariah prophesied:
“See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey.” – Zechariah 9:9
This moment was a divine appointment. Jesus knew exactly what He was doing. And the way He entered Jerusalem—riding on a donkey—revealed His character:
Humble, not prideful
Peaceful, not militant
Royal, but accessible
Layers of Symbolism: More Than Meets the Eye
The Unridden Colt
In ancient times, animals reserved for royalty were never ridden by others. Jesus riding an unused colt was a symbolic way of declaring His kingship.
The Palm Branches
Palm branches were waved in celebration, but the Greek word used here—phoenix—also pointed to resurrection. A subtle hint at what was coming.
The Shouts of “Hosanna”
The people cried out, “Hosanna!” which means Save us! It began as a plea… but turned into praise. Yet many were shouting without fully understanding who Jesus really was or what kind of salvation He offered.
Mixed Reactions in the Crowd
Not everyone saw Jesus the same way:
The Disciples – Faithful, but confused
The Enthusiastic Crowd – Celebrating, yet misled, hoping for political rescue
The Pharisees – Alarmed and resistant to change
Jesus Himself – Steady, deliberate, and filled with purpose
Contrasting Expectations
Palm Sunday reminds us that people often want a Savior on their own terms. But Jesus didn’t come to meet expectations—He came to fulfill a greater mission.
Here’s how those expectations clashed:
Political Kingdom vs. Spiritual Kingdom
Military Power vs. Sacrificial Love
Immediate Liberation vs. Eternal Salvation
People wanted freedom from Rome. Jesus offered freedom from sin.
So… Where Are You in the Crowd?
This message isn’t just historical—it’s deeply personal.
Jesus rode into Jerusalem with the crowd cheering, but He wept. Why? Because many didn’t recognize who He truly was.
“You did not recognize it when God visited you.” – Luke 19:44
It’s a sobering question for us today:
Do we recognize Jesus when He shows up—humble, gentle, and offering peace?
Or are we looking for a Savior that fits our personal agenda?
A Final Image: From Donkey to White Horse
In Revelation 19, the Bible paints a different picture. The next time Jesus comes, it won’t be on a donkey.
He’ll be riding a white horse
Wearing many crowns
Called Faithful and True
And known as King of kings and Lord of lords
Palm Sunday reminds us: Jesus came in peace… but He will return in power.
Let this Palm Sunday be more than a tradition. Let it be a moment of reflection.
Are we welcoming Jesus as He truly is?