A parade with a difference

When he came near Jerusalem, at the place where the road went down the Mount of Olives, the large crowd of his disciples began to thank God and praise him in loud voices for all the great things that they had seen: ‘God bless the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory to God!’ (verses 37, 38)

Read Luke 19: 28-40

We’re all familiar with parades. They occur on occasions such as the queen ‘s visit, Anzac Day, and the success of Australian sporting teams. A lot of preparation goes into them. Sometimes there are floats. There can be bands, people marching, a motorcade. Parades are usually organised down to the last detail. People line the streets to watch the parade go by.

Jesus was in a parade with a difference. He was coming into Jerusalem for the last time. He sent off for his own young donkey to ride on. From that point the crowds coming to Jerusalem for the festival took over. Coats were slung on the donkey ‘s back. There was no red carpet but a carpet of cloaks and palm branches. No­ one was marching, but crowds of people followed along. There were no bands, but people were singing psalms and shouting praises to the king, who was coming in the name of the Lord . People were praising God for all the great things Jesus had done.

If Jesus came to your town, would you be one of those singing and shouting praises?

Dear Jesus, I don’t just want to wait for a parade, I want to join with others in singing and shouting your praises. Help me recognise the great things you have done for me, especially in saving me. Amen.

by Merna Thamm, in ‘Guidance for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2002)

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