Words of Hope Daily Devotional
The Crowd That Acclaimed Him
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! (v. 9)
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday and Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Notice three things about this familiar story. First, it was a deliberate act. As you read the gospel accounts, you can’t help but notice a sense of careful planning. Secondly, it was a symbolic act. This was a royal entrance, and all the details would have sent that message to the crowd, especially Zechariah’s prophecy (Matt. 21:5; see Zech. 9:9). Thirdly, it was a public act. Throughout his ministry, Jesus was always trying to keep the crowds quiet, almost trying to hide his messianic identity. But now that the time has come for his death, it’s as though Jesus wants everybody to pay attention.
Now think about the reaction of the crowd. They certainly responded favorably. They acclaimed Jesus, welcoming and cheering him as their king. But I can’t help hearing an echo of the crowd just a few days later. They went from hosannas and blessings on Palm Sunday to “Crucify him, crucify him!” on Good Friday (John 19:6). How could that have happened in less than a week? You know how it is with crowds. People get caught up in the excitement and don’t really know what the shouting is about.
Of course, many in the crowd did know what they were shouting for. They were cheering for the Messiah, the King. But they had the wrong idea about what the Messiah came to do. When we confess Christ we must accept him on his terms, not ours.
As you pray, welcome Christ as the Messiah.
About the Author
Rev. David Bast
David Bast is a writer and pastor who served for 23 years as the President and Broadcast Minister for Words of Hope. In his more than 40 years of devotional writing and preaching, he has been encouraging believers around the world to be shaped by God and his Word.
Prior to his ministry and work at Words of Hope, Dave served as a pastor for 18 years in congregations in the Reformed Church in America. A graduate of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary, he is the author of nine devotional books and Bible studies, includingWhy Doesn't God Act More Like God,Christ in the Psalms, andA Gospel for the World.
Dave and his wife, Betty Jo, have four children and eight grandchildren. Dave enjoys reading, growing tomatoes, and avidly follows the Detroit Tigers.
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