March 30, 2026
Theme: Our Lord's Public Entry Into Jerusalem
Today’s Scripture: Mark 11:1-11
Scripture: 1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to
Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his
disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will
find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring
it here. 3 If anyone asks
you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back
here shortly.’” 4 They went and
found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are
you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They
answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and
threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many
people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had
cut in the fields. 9 Those
who went ahead and those who followed shouted,
“Hosanna![a]” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”[b]10 “Blessed
is the coming kingdom of our father David! ”Hosanna in the highest heaven!”11 Jesus
entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at
everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the
Twelve.
Thought: This moment reveals a
powerful truth: Jesus is a King,
but not the kind people expected. The crowd expected a
political ruler who would overthrow Rome, yet Jesus entered on a colt—a symbol
of humility and peace. His kingdom would not be built through force, but
through love, sacrifice, and obedience to God. The people praised Him loudly on
that day, but many of the same voices would grow silent just days later. This
reminds us that it is easy to celebrate Jesus when the crowd is cheering, but
true discipleship means following Him even when the road leads to sacrifice.
Mark ends this scene quietly: Jesus enters the temple, looks around, and then
leaves for Bethany because it is late. The King has arrived, yet He comes
observing, preparing, and moving according to God’s perfect timing.
Prayer: Lord, help us to welcome You not just with words of praise but
with faithful hearts and obedient lives. Teach us to follow You in humility,
just as You entered Jerusalem in humility. Amen.
Positive Practice: Today, practice humble praise and obedience. Just as the people laid down their cloaks and
branches to honor Jesus, find a simple way to honor Christ in your daily life.
This could be offering a kind word to someone, helping a neighbor, showing
patience, or taking time to thank God in prayer. Let your actions become your
“palm branches” — small acts that show Jesus is truly King in your life. Before the day ends, do one intentional act of kindness or encouragement for
someone, and quietly thank God for the opportunity to serve Him.
Lenten Emphasis: Lent calls us to follow
that same path of humility. It is a season to lay down our pride, our
distractions, and anything that keeps us from fully honoring Christ. Just as
the people laid their cloaks on the road before Him, we are invited to lay our
hearts before Him.
Mission Emphasis: - HBCUs: Support HBCUs by praying for students on uncertain
paths and offering mentorship or financial support. Your encouragement reminds
students that they are not walking alone.