Day 40 - Crossing The Bridge

Jesus’s Triumphal Entry

The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him. They began to shout, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, “Do not be afraid, people of Zion; look, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt!”

John 12:12-15 (NET)

Jesus’s ‘Triumphal Entry,’ like ‘the feeding of the five thousand’ is one of the few historical events recorded in each of the four gospels. These events are rare and called The Harmony of the Gospels, which implies that Jesus’s triumphal entry was significant. This event marked His transition from peripatetic teacher to potential King and Saviour. As explained above, this was a major event with a clear focus, shouting, and specific elements such as throwing down branches and garments. These visual and auditory cues provided a multisensory experience and help the moment stick in people’s minds. So, why is this such a significant event?

This was a clear transition from Jesus’s peripatetic ministry, and a declaration of who he was. It was also a fulfilment of prophecy, both from the Psalms and Zachariah, and Jesus’s own promise to fulfil the Old Testament, ‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have come to fulfil them.’ (Matt 5:17 NIV)

Jesus had finished his apprenticeship, prepared for his main event, and introduced succession planning via his disciples and followers. Jesus was ready to take on his greatest role by dying for our sins, conquering death, and rising the third day. This was his public declaration.

And that is why I have always seen this Triumphal Entry as a transition rather than a triumph. Most parades, such as a team following a sporting event or Roman parade come after winning a trophy or a battle, not before. Jesus leaves his old life behind and takes up his new, final and greatest role. I liken this to crossing a bridge. You must make a conscious effort to cross to the other side of the river. Make this change publicly, so others can witness your transition.

Is Jesus calling you to change your current role at home, work or in the church? This could be taking on a new role or stepping back and making room for someone else to take your role. Do not see stepping aside as negative, because doing God’s will is never negative. Also, how will you find the time to be a wise old sage if you do not step aside and give time to share your wisdom. Is God calling you to change and are you ready?

Prayer

Father, please show me if you want me to change. Help me and guide me to do your will and give me the courage to continue the path you have laid before me. Amen

Michael Rolton