How can we prepare our hearts for Jesus' entry into our lives today? Setting the Scene—The King Draws Near “ When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent out two disciples” (Matthew 21:1). • Jerusalem’s gates stand for our own hearts—places where the King desires entrance. • Jesus’ deliberate approach signals His intent: He still comes purposefully to every life today. Recognize Who Is Coming • Zechariah 9:9 foretold the gentle King riding a donkey; Matthew 21:5 affirms that prophecy word-for-word. • Because Scripture is exact, we can trust every promise about His present work: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Preparation begins with clear recognition: the One approaching is Lord, Savior, and rightful ruler, not a casual guest. Clear Obstacles—Repentance and Surrender • John prepared Israel’s roads by calling for repentance (Luke 3:4-6). • We prepare our inner roads the same way: ‑ Confess specific sins (1 John 1:9). ‑ Turn from self-reliance to full reliance on Jesus (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Anything unyielded becomes a roadblock. Remove it before the King arrives. Offer a Willing Obedience • “Jesus sent out two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village… you will find a donkey tied there… untie them and bring them to Me’ ” (Matthew 21:2). • The disciples obeyed immediately—no debate, no delay. • Today: ‑ Act on the nudges of Scripture and the Spirit right away. ‑ Obedience becomes the welcome mat for His presence (John 14:21). Lay Down Your Cloaks—Yield Your Possessions • “A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road” (Matthew 21:8). • Cloaks were valuable; laying them down symbolized personal sacrifice. • Application: ‑ Hold resources loosely (Luke 12:33-34). ‑ Let Him direct time, money, talents—every “cloak” that once covered self. Lift Up Praise • “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 21:9). • Praise is more than music; it is vocal agreement with God’s truth. • Maintain: ‑ Continual thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18). ‑ Spoken confession of Jesus’ lordship (Romans 10:9-10). Guard Against Superficial Enthusiasm • Many shouted “Hosanna” yet later cried “Crucify Him.” • Jesus wept over shallow hearts (Luke 19:41-44). • Sustain depth by: ‑ Daily intake of Scripture (Psalm 119:11). ‑ Ongoing fellowship with committed believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). Invite the King to Dwell Continually • “Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20). • When welcomed, He promises abiding presence: “We will come to him and make Our home with him” (John 14:23). • Make His residence permanent through: ‑ Persistent communion—private worship, public gathering, and moment-by-moment conversation. ‑ A lifestyle of holiness that honors the holy Guest (1 Peter 1:15-16). Preparing the heart is not a one-time ritual; it is the ongoing maintenance of a throne room where Jesus truly reigns. |
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