Read: Mark 11:1-11

 So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with the twelve disciples. (Mark 11:11)

Relate: Just think of the excitement and the momentum of the day. The crowds are pouring into the city and when word spreads that Jesus is on his way into town. What is more, He is riding a colt. This signifies that He is coming as a king would come with peaceful intent. He is ready to reveal Himself as Messiah and the people are ecstatic. They line his way with their own coats and with palm branches (a symbol of victory). They are shouting out “hosanna” which could mean savior but they were more likely using the more common meaning: “save, now.” This especially rings true since in the same breath they’re proclaiming the revival of the kingdom of David.

If Jesus wanted to be the Messiah they were expecting, there could not be a better time. If He wanted to set up an earthly kingdom and avoid the scandal of the cross, now was the time. They were ready. They were behind Him. But instead, what does Jesus do? This was a scouting mission. He looks around and then goes home. He sees that they aren’t ready for what He has come to bring. He will proclaim Himself Messiah soon, but not yet.

React: What motivates my actions? Do I act when the time seems best? Am I living out the expectations of others? Am I taking the easy road? Or am I acting out of obedience to my Father? Jesus had two roads to Messiahship ahead of him. One road was paved in victory (palms) and cheered on by crowds. The other was the Via Dolorosa, the way of suffering. It was the road of obedience that we are all called to walk. Following Christ means carrying a cross, not waving a palm.

Respond: 

God, I thank You that You chose the hard road. I think You that You chose obedience. The crowds had paved another way for You but You walked away from that. Because of Your obedience I have been saved. There are no words to express my gratitude. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You…