October 18, 2021
Scripture: And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.” Matthew 21:10-11 ESV
Observation: As Matthew’s Gospel approaches its climax, again, he references fulfillment of messianic prophecy. Referring to Zechariah 9:9, we are told that Jesus is the Prophet whom Zechariah foresaw would enter Zion (Jerusalem) on an untamed, young donkey victoriously as the righteous one. Who is this man who garners the attention and praise of the crowd? Is he a prophet from Nazareth? Yes, but Matthew provides a couple of details to show us he is so much more. He is our king who “saves us now” (the literal meaning of Hosannah, verse 9, is “save now”). And he is a humble, servant king who enters Jerusalem (its name of which means “foundation of peace”) on a beast of burden (symbolic of a peaceful intent) to complete his mission of peace and reconciliation.
Takeaway: While Jesus entered Jerusalem with a show of peace, his soon conquest over the powers of darkness would be anything but peaceful. The Man of Sorrows, the Suffering Servant, the Son of God, would become our beast of burden that we might victoriously enter his heavenly kingdom under his shalom blessings of peace. Let us, therefore, join with the chorus of the crowd and shout: “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the gift of your Son. When doubts arise, would you please help us remember “who is this?” who has ridden to victory over sin and suffering and has “saved us now.” Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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