All four of the gospel writers record the historical event we call “The Triumphal Entry”. On this occasion Jesus rode into Jerusalem upon a donkey, symbolizing His first coming as the Prince of Peace, in order to obtain peace for mankind, especially those who have called upon His name for salvation.
As Jesus made His way along toward the city, the crowd cried out, “Hosanna!”, meaning, “Save Now!” At that time the nation of Israel was under the political regime of Rome, and the Jewish people were being ruled by the spiritually dead, and in some cases corrupt, Pharisees and Sadducees. They were looking for a deliverer, hoping the promised Messiah (which means “anointed”) would come.
Sadly though, the majority of the crowd that had cried “Hosanna!” would cry out “Crucify Him!” within a matter of days.
Reader, what is your view of Jesus Christ? Is it “Hosanna!”? Or is it “Crucify Him!”? Our lifestyles, attitudes, priorities, and goals truly reflect our view of Jesus. I pray that our hearts individually and collectively will boldly proclaim: “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David”.
The word “blessed” is a wonderful word. One of the Hebrew words for it means, “Oh how happy!” Truly, happy is the person whose God is King Jesus, and who is seeking first the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
There is most assuredly triumph and blessedness that await those who receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. But the opposite is also true. God’s Word is clear: “The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you.” To turn against Jesus, whether in preference for the things of this world or some other reason, is truly a tragedy.
May the Spirit of God grant to each of us today fresh repentance and faith to both look unto18 and live for the “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
