Watch out for the cheering crowd (Zechariah 9:13-14, Matthew 21:4-5
Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Margret Nyegenye
The triumphal entry into Jerusalem was and is a celebrated event in all Christian churches across the world. The challenge is whether the celebrants understand the significance or not. Many Jews celebrated this day as Jesus entered Jerusalem but with the misunderstanding of his kingship. The message of Zach. 9:13 which is also reflected in Matthew 21:5 reveal that indeed Christ had come to be the King and to introduce a kingdom that will never end.
The spreading of cloaks, branches and leaves for Jesus was symbolic of the ancient custom where people threw down their garments to make a carpet for the royal procession. Palm branches were an ancient symbol of victory.
During the Maccabean revolt, the Jews minted coins with the image of a palm, emblematic of their victory over the Greeks. Today we recognize Christ’s sovereignty by laying our hearts before him, throwing down our wills in absolute surrender, and asking Jesus to govern everything we think and say and do. We join in a loud ancient hymn singing; All glory, laud and honour to thee redeemer, king.
Three aspects of this king are worth reflecting on today according to Zechariah;
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- He is a rightful king. The epistle of Peter says “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth” (1 Peter 2:22). All his thoughts were pure, all his words were true, and all his actions were just.
- He is a victorious king. He is mighty in battle; he conquered all his enemies and triumphed over them by rising from the grave never to die again. Through him we have neither fear of death nor the grave; we have hope to live forever.
- Our king is meek, humble and gentle. This was symbolized by sitting on a donkey not a mighty war horse. In whichever capacity God has given us leadership roles, we need to seek the character of Christ. Though God, he humbled himself…Phil. 2:5-11. Our king is the author of peace.
Unlike other kings who are fierce towards their own subjects; they rule with a rod of iron, Jesus is the meekest of kings. Yet he is mighty and awesome, strong and fierce enough to crush all his enemies. But this same Jesus is also tender, loving, and peaceful to everyone who trusts in him. He is gentle enough to care for all God’s children irrespective of who they are. He is the lion of Judah and the lamb.
Today as we celebrate the King of Kings, be careful not to be among the cheering crowd that shouted Hosanna without the clear knowledge of the king. He invites you to open your heart that he may dine with you. You
can begin to live triumphantly while here on earth. May God bless you.
The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenyenye
Ag. Provost