How should Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem influence our daily walk with Him? The City Stirred: Jesus’ Presence Demands Attention “When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, ‘Who is this?’ ” (Matthew 21:10) • His arrival disrupted normal life; our routines should never stay untouched when the King draws near. • Like the city, every space we occupy—home, workplace, community—ought to feel the ripple of His presence through us (Acts 4:13). Recognize the King Daily, Not Occasionally • Crowds hailed Him one day and ignored Him the next (Matthew 27:22). • Set your heart each morning to answer the city’s question with certainty: “This is Jesus, my Lord and my God” (John 20:28). • Develop habits of remembrance—Scripture reading, thanksgiving, singing—so your mind stays fixed on the Son (Colossians 3:1–2). Respond With Wholehearted Praise • The palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna” (Matthew 21:9) invite continual celebration of His salvation. • Praise is fuel for steadfastness; God “inhabits the praises of Israel” (Psalm 22:3). • Let words, music, and acts of kindness become your palm branches (Colossians 3:17). Choose Obedient Participation Over Passive Observation • Disciples fetched a colt exactly as instructed (Matthew 21:2–6). • Small obediences—apologizing, tithing, serving—become royal processional rugs for Jesus to walk on today (Luke 16:10). Let Jesus Correct Our Expectations • Israel longed for political liberation, yet the King arrived “gentle and riding on a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9). • Surrender personal agendas; trust His wisdom when His way looks humble or slow (Isaiah 55:8–9). Be Ready to Introduce Others to Him • The crowd’s question, “Who is this?” opens evangelistic doors. • Prepare a clear, brief testimony of who Jesus is and how He saved you (1 Peter 3:15). • Invite curiosity through consistent joy and integrity (Philippians 2:14–15). Live in the Tension of Triumph and the Cross • The same road of loud hosannas led to Calvary (Luke 23:21). • Expect both victories and sacrifices in your walk (Philippians 3:10). • Remember: resurrection follows obedience through suffering (Hebrews 12:2). Practical Steps for Today 1. Read Matthew 21:1–11 aloud; picture yourself in the scene. 2. Write one tangible way Jesus can “stir” your schedule, attitude, or conversation today. 3. Offer a short praise out loud—“Hosanna, You save!”—whenever worry surfaces. 4. Meet one need of another person this week as a living palm branch of honor (Romans 12:1). |