“The next day, the news that Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A large crowd of Passover visitors took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted, “Praise God! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hail to the King of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said: “Don’t be afraid, people of Jerusalem. Look, your King is coming, riding on a donkey’s colt.” His disciples didn’t understand at the time that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. But after Jesus entered into his glory, they remembered what had happened and realized that these things had been written about him. Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. That was the reason so many went out to meet him—because they had heard about this miraculous sign.”

-John 12:12-19 (NLT)

A huge crowd of people enthusiastically welcomed Jesus as He entered Jerusalem. It was time for Passover, the week-long celebration of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Visitors from all over the country converged on the capital to celebrate at the Temple.

Given the diversity of the group, people undoubtedly flocked to meet Jesus for different reasons. Many in the crowd may have already been His disciples, having followed Him in the countryside as He preached, taught, and healed. These pilgrims shouted praise to Jesus as the rightful king and victor, One sent by the Lord. Perhaps some fully understood His reign and believed in Him as Messiah, the High Priest foretold by the prophets. Others likely worshiped him as a political savior, a ruler who would expel foreign oppressors and propel Israel to its proper place as a world power. Still others pressed in to see Jesus the miracle-worker who raised Lazarus from the dead.

Jesus defied all expectations by riding into town on a donkey, rather than a horse fit for a king. He humbly received the crowd’s worship without questioning their intentions.

Like this crowd of ordinary people, we may seek Jesus for different reasons. Perhaps someone in your life needs a healing touch, and you’re coming to Jesus for a miracle. Maybe you want Jesus to free you from mental or emotional oppression, like doubt, anger, lust, striving, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you simply seek Jesus as Messiah, the rightful King who is worthy of all our praise.

Whatever your intentions, Jesus will meet you wherever you are on your journey with Him. He will humbly receive your heart as a gracious Savior and Redeemer.

 

For Further Reflection:

Why do you seek Jesus today? Do you worship Him for Who He is or for what He can do for you?

Jesus, please reveal the intentions of my heart toward You. Increase my desire to worship you solely as Messiah and Lord of my life. May the meditations of my heart be pleasing to You today.