How can we prepare our hearts to receive Jesus as King today? Welcoming the Gentle King “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your King comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” (Matthew 21:5) Recognize the King’s Character • Gentle, not forceful—He comes humbly (Zechariah 9:9 fulfilled) • Righteous—He brings salvation (Isaiah 62:11) • Worthy of honor—He is the promised Son of David (2 Samuel 7:12-13) Respond With Reverent Expectation • Quiet your soul (Psalm 46:10) • Fix your eyes on Jesus, not circumstances (Hebrews 12:2) • Cultivate hope: “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him” (Lamentations 3:25) Clear the Highway of the Heart Just as cloaks and branches were laid before Him (Matthew 21:8): • Lay down pride—confess sin openly (1 John 1:9) • Lay down distractions—fast from anything that dulls spiritual hunger (Hebrews 12:1) • Lay down self-reliance—acknowledge His lordship (Proverbs 3:5-6) Celebrate His Arrival Daily • Speak praise: “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 21:9) • Sing truth-filled songs (Colossians 3:16) • Testify to others (1 Peter 3:15) Submit to the King’s Reign • Obey His Word promptly (John 14:15) • Serve others sacrificially (Mark 10:45) • Steward resources for His kingdom (Matthew 6:19-21) Live in Ongoing Expectation of His Return • Keep watch; be ready (Matthew 24:42-44) • Purify yourself as He is pure (1 John 3:3) • Encourage one another all the more as the Day approaches (Hebrews 10:25) Summary Checklist □ Recognize His gentle, righteous kingship □ Quiet your soul and focus on Him □ Remove obstacles of sin, pride, distraction □ Lift continual praise and testimony □ Obey, serve, and steward under His authority □ Maintain hopeful vigilance for His return |
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