1 April 2025
The King arrives, but not as expected. Mark Penrith writes, “A king on a horse meant war. A king on a donkey meant peace.” Scripture says, “See, your King is coming to you, gentle, and mounted on a donkey” (Matthew 21:5). This is deliberate. This is clear. Jesus does not come to crush His enemies. He comes to save sinners. His posture reveals His purpose.
This would have unsettled many. “They want a King who will fight for them.” They longed for strength. Power. Victory over Rome. Yet “Jesus comes as a servant.” He refuses their categories. He overturns their expectations. He redefines what it means to be King. Not force. Not dominance. Humility. Gentleness. Peace.
Mark presses this truth deeper. “Jesus is not being subtle. He is deliberate. Intentional. Unmistakable.” The donkey is not weakness. It is revelation. It shows the heart of the King. He does not demand. He invites. He does not crush. He rescues. He does not come to take life, but to give it. This is the King you follow.
But this confronts your instincts. You want recognition. You want advancement. You want your voice heard. Yet your King walked a different road. “The crowd sees the symbols. They recognise the King. But they reinterpret the donkey through their own expectations.” You can do the same. You can admire Jesus, yet resist His way.
So choose differently today. In your workplace, pursue humility. Speak with gentleness. Respond with patience. Refuse self-promotion. Let your tone reflect Christ. Let your conduct point to Him. “Jesus comes as a servant.” So must you. This is not weakness. This is obedience. This is strength under control.
Bring this into your home. “A symbol peace and humility.” That is what your family must see. Say sorry quickly. Do not defend your pride. Serve without being asked. Lead with gentleness. Your children will learn more from your posture than your words. Show them the King by how you live.
“The crowd sees a conqueror. Jesus comes as a servant.” Do not miss Him by clinging to your own way. Follow Him. Walk His path. Embrace His humility.
Where are you resisting the humble way of Christ in your life?
Lord Jesus, You are gentle and humble. Shape my heart to reflect Yours, in my work, my home, and my words. Amen.