Jesus’ style my style

Jesus found a donkey and rode on it, just as the scripture says,

‘Do not be afraid, city of Zion! here comes your king, riding on a young donkey.’ 

His disciples did not understand this at the time; but when Jesus had been raised to glory, they remembered that the scripture said this about him and that they had done this for him. (verses 14-16)

Read John 12: 12-19

With the large crowd and the cheering and waving it could have been the procession of any dignitary. With one exception: this dignitary – this king – comes riding along not on a thoroughbred stallion but, of all things, a young donkey.

King Jesus does things differently. He turns away from show and grandeur, away from all the trappings of royalty. His style, instead, is one of gentleness and humility.   It was a style that was to lead him to a cross for a throne and thorns for a crown.

But then, on Easter Day, came the triumph and the glory.

As Jesus’ followers our style is also to be one of humility and gentleness. No seeking the limelight. No hankering after recognition.   Just a quiet, self-effacing  walking in  the footsteps of the Master.

And then, one day, for us too there’ll be the glory and the triumph.

Jesus, I praise your humility that led you to the cross. May my life reflect your humility and gentleness. Amen

by Grace Simpson, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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