Palm Sunday
Title: The Entry into Jerusalem Notes: Scrovegni Chapel Date: 1304-1306 Artist: Giotto di Bondone
Try to imagine that you are in the crowd at the edge of Jerusalem. The priests that you see regularly when you go to the temple are standing behind you scowling grumbling and openly calling out to the crowd to stop this nonsense and ignore Jesus. Do you lay down your cloak on the road before Jesus? Do you listen to your priests that have faithfully been offering up your sacrifices and praying for you for decades? These are the real challenges people faced. Today people still face challenges when coming to Jesus. But the call of the Spirit, the scriptures, the apostles, and the church is to “Come!” “Trust Jesus"!" - “be brave!”
Anchor Texts:
Luke 19:28-44 NIVUK - Jesus comes to Jerusalem as king
Questions to Ponder:
If someone asked you what the big deal is about “Palm Sunday” what would you say?
Jesus weeps on Palm Sunday, why? Read Luke 19:41-44. In what ways is Palm Sunday a “sad” event?
The donkey Jesus is riding symbolizes that he is coming in peace, what area of your live do you need Jesus to visit with his peace right now?
Why do you think the pharisees and religious leaders would want Jesus to stop the people from celebrating him? (V. 39)
In verse 31 and 34 we see the phrase: “the Lord needs it” - referring to the donkey, but why does he need it? Couldn’t Jesus just tell the people who he is and that' he’s coming in peace? Reflect on the importance of actions, rituals, and symbols.
The Theme in Song:
This hymn is one of the most well-loved on Palm Sunday and Easter seasons, but sadly has fallen out of use in our little corner of the church. Here it is, re-invigourated for you to hear!