Mark 11:1-11, The Message

Everyone had gathered for the Festival of the Passover.  But who was invited to the public procession and display of liberation?  People who needed hope were gathered to remember their deliverance from the oppressive acts of Pharaoh.  God had intervened then and was about to intervene again.

The Roman Empire was in control and Pilate would have demonstrated a position of power in the city.  Warhorses, chariots and weapons would have been highly visible to remind the Jews that the Roman Empire was still in control.

Then Jesus rides in on a colt.  By entering Jerusalem, Jesus is making a statement against the Roman Empire.   On the road would have been a group of poor people who would be remembering the stories of God’s liberation from the past.  Those gathered would be looking for an alternative to their current state of oppression.

Joining the non-violent, poor people’s procession requires a risk, but it comes with eternal rewards!

Jesus needs us to do our part!
When they were nearing Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany on Mount Olives, he sent off two of the disciples with instructions: “Go to the village across from you.  As soon as you enter, you’ll find a colt tethered, one that has never yet been ridden.  Untie it and bring it.  If anyone asks, ‘What are you doing?’ say, ‘The Master needs him, and will return him right away.’”   Mark 11:1-3

Join the chorus of Hosanna!
The people gave him a wonderful welcome, some throwing their coats on the street, others spreading out rushes they had cut in the fields.  Running ahead and following after, they were calling out, “Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in God’s name!  Blessed the coming kingdom of our father David!  Hosanna in highest heaven!”   Mark 11:8-10

Hear the W.O.W., the Words of Wisdom,
“Jesus Saves!”