The Jews longed for, and therefore, had great expectations of a Messiah that would come triumphantly and deliver them from the Roman occupation and oppression. They envisioned a warrior type savior who would come in [1] through the Eastern Gate [2] and destroy the Roman army en masse.

People lined the streets, Palm branches in hand, to await the entry of their Messiah [3]. They expected a warrior Messiah to ride in on a magnificent horse, a symbol of war. They expected their Messiah to redeem and deliver them from Roman oppression [4]. So, can you imagine their disappointment and confusion when The King of Israel, their Messiah, the one who came to deliver them, rode in on a donkey, a symbol of peace [5]? “WHAT!!?” The thing is, Jesus did not come to shed Roman blood, but He came to shed His own blood for us [6].

v9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. [Zechariah 9:9 KJV]

Thank you, Jesus for redeeming me [7] and saving my eternal soul through your blood [8]. I exhort you all to thank Jesus Christ at this moment for His redeeming Blood and His propitiatory sacrifice on the Cross. A heart felt thank you, is the least any of us can do for His excruciating death on Calvary’s Tree [9]. Is it any wonder that this was the greatest week in human history?

Father, your Word says that man’s heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. Your Word is replete of our sins and wrongdoing. I love you Father, but as a father myself, I do not understand how you could sacrifice your one and only Son that whoever believes in you would not perish but have everlasting life. Lord, I admit to you that we got the better deal. With all the sinning I have done throughout my life Lord, I feel I am not worthy to even ask for your forgiveness. And like John, I am not worthy to even latch your sandals. That is until I realize Father that I am worthy. I am worthy because Jesus Christ lives inside of me through your Holy Spirit. But like everyone else Lord, I am not deserving of your love, let alone for the death of your Son, Jesus Christ. I am remorseful and deeply sorry that I had a part in His death. However, Father, your Word is also replete with and overflowing with numerous words of encouragement, blessings, and guidance. I thank you for the many blessings you have bestowed upon me throughout my life. You have touched my heart at this moment, Lord, and I thank you for tabernacling with me in these days. Lord, I lift those who are not only reading this prayer, but also those who are not. I pray that your children Father, bless you. I especially pray for those who do not know you, and that you send your Holy Spirit to them to share the saving knowledge and grace of Jesus the Christ. I pray this prayer in the name that is above every name, and that name is Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. AMEN.

In Jewish culture, no one could ride on the Kings horse or Donkey. [10]
______________________________________________________________________

[1] On a great steed (horse). Symbol of King and warrior.
[2] Zechariah 14:4-9, 9:9; Daniel 7:13; Ezekiel 44:1, 2 and many more.
[3] Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19
[4] Redundant, I know, but well worth repeating.
[5] It is my opinion that this is what is wrong with the world today. Too many folks, some Christians included, worry too much about, and expect, and depending, on things in the natural.
[6] Jews sacrificed two-hundred and fifty-thousand lambs, on the day that Jesus hung on the Cross.
[7] Matthew 20:28
[8] Revelation 12:11
[9] Matthew 27:32-56
[10] This was a definite decision by Christ declaring who He was. This was quite the statement, don’t you think?