- Luke 19:37-38 - And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.
- Mark 11:9 - And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
- Mark 11:8 - And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.
- John 12:19 - The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.
God sometimes acts in a way different from what we expect.
We often say, "If only I knew then what I know now!" For the disciples, Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem was exactly such a moment. That day looked very magnificent to them—and it truly was, but for reasons different from what they thought.
The disciples were not alone—many Jews also had false expectations regarding the Messiah. They wanted to see Him as an earthly king. When people heard Jesus was coming, they shouted, "Hosanna!"—meaning "Save us now!" They perceived Him as a ruler who would bring political freedom. After all, He raised the dead—meaning He could restore the kingdom of David and liberate them from Roman rule.
But Jesus came on a donkey. This was a symbol of a king bringing peace. People spread their garments and palm branches on the road to welcome Him. Even the Pharisees were there—looking with dissatisfaction, saying, "Look, the whole world is going after Him."
Reflect this week: when in your life have events unfolded differently than you expected? Or when have you realized that God was working in a way you didn't think He would? Look for an opportunity to share this with a friend or loved one.
Reflection
Has there been a moment in your life where you felt God was working outside of your plans? What was the outcome?
