Mark 11:1-11
When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples 2 and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. 3 If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ just say this: ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.’ ” 4 They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it, 5 some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” 6 They told them what Jesus had said, and they allowed them to take it. 7 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. 9 Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting,
“Hosanna!
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
11 Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple, and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.
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On Palm Sunday, we recognize Olivet's namesake. The Mount of Olivets (frankly, more a hill than a mount) offers an impressively broad view of Jerusalem and is the place from which Jesus enters the city. Many local churches honor this sacred place with the names "Mt. Olive," "Mt. Olivet," and, in our case, "Olivet." Historically, olive branches represent peace and friendship. Our namesake thus holds several meanings realted to Palm Sunday. Like olive branches, palm branches symbolize peace. They also symbolize victory, triumph, and eternal life. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, onlookers welcome him with much enthusiasm and many palm branches.
In Mark's telling, a great deal of detail is shared regarding Jesus's travel arrangements. Consider this: Jeus goes out of his way to ask for a donkey, a "colt" (Mk. 11:2), and not a horse. Riding on a horse would give an image of superiority and power, whereas riding on a donkey gives an image of humility. Imagine Jesus riding past with his feet dragging on the ground. Is this the Messiah everyone expects? Not exactly. People show a superficial kind of love towards Jesus that day, a love that's rooted in nothing more than likability and admiration. However, as Holy Week will reveal to us, Jesus calls us to a love that withstands suffering. The cross shows us that God's love is anything but superficial.
Going Forth Prayer: Lord, may your love guide us as we journey through Holy Week. We are your people, ready to be saved. Amen.
