Jesus Comes as King
If this was football season it would be the week before the Sunday before the Super Bowl. Not much goes on the Sunday before, does it. But in our Bible – the Sunday before Easter turns out to be quite an event. This is the last leg of a three-year trip. Scholars call this the Passion Narrative of Luke. Jesus has been hiking up the long windy road from Jerricho to Jerusalem.
In Luke 19:11-27 We find the parable of the Ten-Minas. It is a disturbing text that is left out of the Christian lectionary. Why? Because it ends with Jesus declaring – “But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them—bring them here and kill them in front of me.’”
How often have you read that scripture? If you take the time to sit in this text before jumping into the reading plan you get an entirely different view of Palm Sunday than you may remember as a kid shouting Hosannah and waving palm branches. I recommend it!
New here? Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, Click Bible icon at the Bottom, then click Plan. After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
In Luke 19:11-27 We find the parable of the Ten-Minas. It is a disturbing text that is left out of the Christian lectionary. Why? Because it ends with Jesus declaring – “But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them—bring them here and kill them in front of me.’”
How often have you read that scripture? If you take the time to sit in this text before jumping into the reading plan you get an entirely different view of Palm Sunday than you may remember as a kid shouting Hosannah and waving palm branches. I recommend it!
New here? Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, Click Bible icon at the Bottom, then click Plan. After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Day 1: The Triumphal Entry Begins
Key Scripture: Luke 19:29-31
Parallel OT Scripture: Zechariah 9:9
Palm Sunday is the big build up before a terrifying “Good” Friday. Jesus, the long-awaited King, sends two disciples with these curious instructions: retrieve a colt that has never been ridden. Imagine their surprise when they find everything just as He said. In other words – the event is staged. Jesus already knows how the entire week will unfold.
Jesus needs the donkey to make a point. This is a countercultural decision by Jesus to be disruptive to everyone – including his followers. For a king to ride a donkey was almost unthinkable—it defied expectations and challenged societal norms of leadership and greatness. Yet, Jesus intentionally chose this symbol of humility to redefine the concept of kingship.
After all the years of following Jesus, the disciples still think he is a conquering king that uses force and power. I recommended you read Luke 19:11-27 before you got to here. Did you? Verse 27 is exactly what the people are expecting. So, Jesus is now throwing them a curve. He is a different kind of king and this is a very different kind of day!
Devotional Thought: As you reflect on this moment, ask yourself: How often do I expect Jesus to show up in ways that align with my own ideas of power or success? Am I willing to let Him challenge my expectations and redefine what greatness looks like in my life?
This is a difficult thing to do. But those of you reading the blog get a week’s head start! Yay!
Key Scripture: Luke 19:29-31
Parallel OT Scripture: Zechariah 9:9
Palm Sunday is the big build up before a terrifying “Good” Friday. Jesus, the long-awaited King, sends two disciples with these curious instructions: retrieve a colt that has never been ridden. Imagine their surprise when they find everything just as He said. In other words – the event is staged. Jesus already knows how the entire week will unfold.
Jesus needs the donkey to make a point. This is a countercultural decision by Jesus to be disruptive to everyone – including his followers. For a king to ride a donkey was almost unthinkable—it defied expectations and challenged societal norms of leadership and greatness. Yet, Jesus intentionally chose this symbol of humility to redefine the concept of kingship.
After all the years of following Jesus, the disciples still think he is a conquering king that uses force and power. I recommended you read Luke 19:11-27 before you got to here. Did you? Verse 27 is exactly what the people are expecting. So, Jesus is now throwing them a curve. He is a different kind of king and this is a very different kind of day!
Devotional Thought: As you reflect on this moment, ask yourself: How often do I expect Jesus to show up in ways that align with my own ideas of power or success? Am I willing to let Him challenge my expectations and redefine what greatness looks like in my life?
This is a difficult thing to do. But those of you reading the blog get a week’s head start! Yay!
Day 2: The Obedience of the Disciples
Key Scripture: Luke 19:32-34
Parallel OT Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:22
Jesus sends two disciples to get a colt. He tells them exactly where to find it and the password; “The Lord needs it.” Sure enough, it happens just as He said.
This wasn’t a random moment. Jesus had clearly planned this ahead of time. He knew the colt’s owners, and they were ready to let it go when the time came. It shows that Jesus wasn’t just reacting to what was happening—He was actively preparing for what was ahead. He knew this week would lead to the cross, but He still moved forward, carefully arranging every detail. Even something as small as borrowing a colt was part of His bigger plan. The disciples play their part by not hesitating! As Samuel says – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” What if they had not done what they were told?
Devotional Thought: Do you always jump when called? When we have learned to discern the Holy Spirit – we should! How can you surrender your doubts and step forward in obedience today, trusting that He will provide?
Key Scripture: Luke 19:32-34
Parallel OT Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:22
Jesus sends two disciples to get a colt. He tells them exactly where to find it and the password; “The Lord needs it.” Sure enough, it happens just as He said.
This wasn’t a random moment. Jesus had clearly planned this ahead of time. He knew the colt’s owners, and they were ready to let it go when the time came. It shows that Jesus wasn’t just reacting to what was happening—He was actively preparing for what was ahead. He knew this week would lead to the cross, but He still moved forward, carefully arranging every detail. Even something as small as borrowing a colt was part of His bigger plan. The disciples play their part by not hesitating! As Samuel says – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” What if they had not done what they were told?
Devotional Thought: Do you always jump when called? When we have learned to discern the Holy Spirit – we should! How can you surrender your doubts and step forward in obedience today, trusting that He will provide?
Day 3: The Triumphal Entry
Key Scripture: Luke 19:35-38
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 118:25-26
This scripture does a great job of describing the enthusiasm around Jesus. What most people do not know is that at another gate there is equal enthusiasm – for the Romans arriving. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, also entered Jerusalem for Passover through the North Gate. The contrast is striking. Pilate’s entrance represents power through fear and force, while Jesus’ entrance symbolizes humility, peace, and hope.
The two processions highlight two kingdoms: the kingdom of man, built on domination, and the kingdom of God, rooted in love and sacrifice. For many, the conflict between the two kingdoms is a daily occurrence. The world we live "in" is a powerful force to overcome!
Devotional Thought: Which do you choose? The fleeting power of the world or the eternal Kingdom of God? Consider this: Does my life reflect the values of Jesus’ kingdom?
Key Scripture: Luke 19:35-38
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 118:25-26
This scripture does a great job of describing the enthusiasm around Jesus. What most people do not know is that at another gate there is equal enthusiasm – for the Romans arriving. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, also entered Jerusalem for Passover through the North Gate. The contrast is striking. Pilate’s entrance represents power through fear and force, while Jesus’ entrance symbolizes humility, peace, and hope.
The two processions highlight two kingdoms: the kingdom of man, built on domination, and the kingdom of God, rooted in love and sacrifice. For many, the conflict between the two kingdoms is a daily occurrence. The world we live "in" is a powerful force to overcome!
Devotional Thought: Which do you choose? The fleeting power of the world or the eternal Kingdom of God? Consider this: Does my life reflect the values of Jesus’ kingdom?
Day 4: The Pharisees’ Rebuke
Key Scripture: Luke 19:39-40
Parallel OT Scripture: Habakkuk 2:11
We should consider yesterday’s blog to provide context. The Pharisees were really on edge. Pilate and his troops were arriving just on the other side of the wall. They were summoned to Jerusalem during Passover just for the reason of potential uprisings.
“Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” the Pharisees demand. Jesus has a "Show them the hand" moment: if the disciples are silent, the stones will cry out. Habakkuk 2:11 reminds us that the very stones testify to truth when human voices fail. Jesus is not even down the mountain yet and tension is more than a little elevated. Gee - what could possibly go wrong next week?
Devotional Thought: Have you ever felt hesitant to stand up for your faith or express your love for Jesus? What holds you back?
Key Scripture: Luke 19:39-40
Parallel OT Scripture: Habakkuk 2:11
We should consider yesterday’s blog to provide context. The Pharisees were really on edge. Pilate and his troops were arriving just on the other side of the wall. They were summoned to Jerusalem during Passover just for the reason of potential uprisings.
“Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” the Pharisees demand. Jesus has a "Show them the hand" moment: if the disciples are silent, the stones will cry out. Habakkuk 2:11 reminds us that the very stones testify to truth when human voices fail. Jesus is not even down the mountain yet and tension is more than a little elevated. Gee - what could possibly go wrong next week?
Devotional Thought: Have you ever felt hesitant to stand up for your faith or express your love for Jesus? What holds you back?
Day 5: Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem
Key Scripture: Luke 19:41-42
Parallel OT Scripture: Jeremiah 8:11-12
And then, as Jerusalem comes into view, Jesus begins to weep. This moment is profoundly moving. It’s the second time in the Gospels that we see Jesus weep (Where is the other?).
His tears are for a city, for a people. Jesus sees not just the city’s beauty but the brokenness of its hearts. He weeps because they do not recognize the peace He offers. These are not tears of frustration or anger, but of deep, sorrowful love—a love that longs for His people to recognize and accept the salvation He brings. I want to call His tears - disappointment – but theologically that would not be sound. Let’s just call it His humanity!
Devotional Thought: How many times do you think God has done things in your life and you failed to notice? Or perhaps you willfully disobeyed. Think He was disappointed?
Key Scripture: Luke 19:41-42
Parallel OT Scripture: Jeremiah 8:11-12
And then, as Jerusalem comes into view, Jesus begins to weep. This moment is profoundly moving. It’s the second time in the Gospels that we see Jesus weep (Where is the other?).
His tears are for a city, for a people. Jesus sees not just the city’s beauty but the brokenness of its hearts. He weeps because they do not recognize the peace He offers. These are not tears of frustration or anger, but of deep, sorrowful love—a love that longs for His people to recognize and accept the salvation He brings. I want to call His tears - disappointment – but theologically that would not be sound. Let’s just call it His humanity!
Devotional Thought: How many times do you think God has done things in your life and you failed to notice? Or perhaps you willfully disobeyed. Think He was disappointed?
Day 6: The Prediction of Judgment
Key Scripture: Luke 19:43-44
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 29:1-4
We all know what Jesus knows - the city of Jerusalem will face destruction. But even today, His words are sobering, reminding us of Isaiah’s warning to "Ariel" (Jerusalem) about the consequences of rebellion. I think in many ways our world is the same today. We would likely keep moving down the road of destruction than to do the hard thing and follow Him. We see exactly that all around us.
When we think of the two kings arriving at two gates we have to wonder; if we lived back then which gate would we have been at? Who would we have cheered on? That is also a sobering thought, am I right?
Devotional Thought: Where in your life have you resisted God’s call? Is there an area where you know change is needed, but fear or stubbornness holds you back? Do you keep going to the wrong gate because it is easier.
Key Scripture: Luke 19:43-44
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 29:1-4
We all know what Jesus knows - the city of Jerusalem will face destruction. But even today, His words are sobering, reminding us of Isaiah’s warning to "Ariel" (Jerusalem) about the consequences of rebellion. I think in many ways our world is the same today. We would likely keep moving down the road of destruction than to do the hard thing and follow Him. We see exactly that all around us.
When we think of the two kings arriving at two gates we have to wonder; if we lived back then which gate would we have been at? Who would we have cheered on? That is also a sobering thought, am I right?
Devotional Thought: Where in your life have you resisted God’s call? Is there an area where you know change is needed, but fear or stubbornness holds you back? Do you keep going to the wrong gate because it is easier.
Day 7: Responding to the King
Key Scripture: Luke 19:29-44 (Summary)
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 24:7-10
Ok - recap of the week. It was all planned, as is the week to come. We have trouble realizing that but - there it is. As i write this I am excited about the kids coming in and shouting Hosannah Hosannah Palm Sunday in church. What did Jesus tell us to do - be like the children! Let's enjoy that moment - it's going to be a long difficult week.
Devotional Thought: Simple - Pray for strength today that you can live in each moment of each day of the week to come. Super Bowl is next Sunday. Get ready.
Key Scripture: Luke 19:29-44 (Summary)
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 24:7-10
Ok - recap of the week. It was all planned, as is the week to come. We have trouble realizing that but - there it is. As i write this I am excited about the kids coming in and shouting Hosannah Hosannah Palm Sunday in church. What did Jesus tell us to do - be like the children! Let's enjoy that moment - it's going to be a long difficult week.
Devotional Thought: Simple - Pray for strength today that you can live in each moment of each day of the week to come. Super Bowl is next Sunday. Get ready.
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