Palm Sunday | Mark 11:1-11 | A Different Kind of Triumph

Reflection

Most of us are familiar with the words attributed to the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar, “Veni, Vidi, Vici.” I came. I saw. I conquered. That is the way of imperial rulers in their conquestorial pursuits. Earthly kings enter a city with great fanfare, military bravado, and a ruthless intent. They ride in on mighty steeds⸺Arabian, Andalusian, and Abrams⸺and attire themselves with armor and weaponry. They come to kill and destroy all who would obstruct their path to victory. 

The way of Jesus is different. 

He enters the city of Jerusalem on a beast of burden, a common donkey used to haul everyday goods. His entrance is humble. He comes, he sees, and he is conquered by the very people he wishes to liberate. Far from ruthless, his first act upon arrival is to weep over a city who knows not the time of its visitation. His “triumphal” entry meets the twist of irony in his crown of thorns and throne of execution. And those who worshiped his grand arrival and pledged him fealty, even those nearest to him, fall away. 

Question

What do you make of this type of “kingly” arrival and how does it shape your own life of faith and ministry? 

Prayer

Lord, you know the pride of our hearts. We are ready to follow those who enter with force and fanfare. We highly esteem the valiant warrior and conquering king. We pledge allegiance to the deft diplomat and pragmatic politician. The humble arrival of Jesus looks like none of these. Yet, may we see the glory of meekness in his lowly ride, the triumph of empathy in his mournful tears, for the king of the universe has come to liberate our hearts from their deceit. Amen.