Pilgrims make their way on foot into Jerusalem and it is only the kings that ride into Jerusalem on a stallion. The kings enter into their city, the seat of their power. Jesus enters into the Jerusalem on a colt, as some would have it on a donkey. Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem reflects Zechariah 9:9
‘Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion!
Shout, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your king comes to you,
righteous and victorious,
lowly and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey’
Jesus enters on an animal that symbolizes humility and peace. Jesus does not go into his own city to claim authority. He comes into his own to be recognized. The people rejoice for a short time but this soon turns into absolute rejection as they discover what he stands for. It is not what they were expecting.
Very often a new colleague is welcomed into the office very politely and most would even put on their good behavior for the new colleague. How long does this welcome last? As soon as they ruffle our feathers by some new proposals or when they step on our toes, the welcome goes out the window. Were we genuine in our hearts when we welcomed that new person?
The Jews wanted a warrior king who would overthrow the Romans. When this did not happen, they turned on Jesus. They wanted to continue their rituals as it was in the past. When Jesus turned the tables on them, they plotted to get rid of him. Jesus came to claim the hearts that were committed to him but those who believed and practiced their faith did not recognize the very person they circumcised themselves for.
Love and Adventure,
Fr. Terence Pereira
Questions for Reflection
Do we welcome Jesus as the Master in all areas of our lives?
When trials and tribulations come our way, is Jesus still welcome to give directions?