Sunday, April 14, 2019

Why Do We Celebrate Palm Sunday?

   Today is the day we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. But, why exactly do we celebrate Palm Sunday? I mean all that happened is Jesus came into the city, people waved palm branches, and Jesus went into the temple. What’s so important about that?
   One reason it is important is because Jesus was fulfilling prophecy.  John 12:14 says: ““And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, ‘Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt!’” Another reason it is important is what happened after.
   Picture this: You are going about your day in Jerusalem. You see dust kicked up from so many people being here. You smell animals and sweat because it is so hot. Yet, there is some excitement in the air. People are getting ready for Passover. Then you hear that Jesus is coming. You hear that Jesus has performed miracles, healed others, and could be the Messiah. Other people begin to grab palm branches and run outside the city to greet him. You go out and see that people are dancing and singing because salvation has come. Then you hear Jesus weep and say that Jerusalem will be destroyed.
   Based off of what you visualized how are you feeling? You probably are confused and maybe even a little angry. Wouldn’t a savior protect his kingdom? What many people forget is that Jesus is an enigma. He has a perfect plan that has come about and will continue to come about. His kingdom isn’t temporary or earthly. His kingdom is an eternal kingdom. And, what is even better is that his kingdom isn’t just for the Jews. He died on the cross so that ALL could be saved.
   This is why we celebrate Palm Sunday. This day started the week where Jesus would die and be resurrected. I encourage you to think about what Jesus did for you. He took the burden of sin for you. He came into Jerusalem knowing that he would die. He came saying “not my will but yours be done.”
   This blog was shortened from a sermon I preached at Maytown Church of God today. If you would like to hear the whole sermon you can click this link to hear it. Then scroll down to find the sermon called "Why Do We Celebrate Palm Sunday?" And click audio (you may have to turn on the volume to hear the sermon).
   Image from here.

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