The nation of Israel had been subjected to foreign rule for most of their existence.  The time was ripe for this small country to have a ruler of their own.  They yearned for a king who was one of them and would lead them out of bondage, just as Moses had many years ago.

The people had once again strayed from the true God and even though there were those who claimed to be zealous for the Lord, they relied on themselves and their good deeds more than Him. Their strict adherence to the law had become their way to achieve God’s mercy, but it wasn’t enough to make them clean in His sight.

When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the people thought He was the promised king they had been waiting for. They were convinced He would solve all their problems and  give them back their lands and status.  This same crowd would denounce Him in just a few days. 

They had their king and yet they did not know it.  How could they not see that God was walking with them?  Do we accept Him as our king?  How often do we reject Him?  We do it every day with our thoughts our words and the things we do.

Jesus chose to leave His heavenly throne; to come to a sin sick world; to heal the physically ill and the spiritually lost; to teach the truth; to wake people up and show them the truth of God’s Word; to suffer a trial filled with false evidence; to endure inhumane torture at the hands of the Roman guards; to hang on a cross – bruised and spat upon; to die and be placed in a tomb fit for a king; to rise again as He promised He would; to give His great commission to His followers; to ascend into heaven and rule once more.

Lord, Jesus, you are indeed my King.  I know that full well, but you are more than that.  You came so that I could enjoy eternal life with you.  You came to wash away my sins – to be the perfect sacrifice – to take my place.  Help me to remember that you are not only a man, but true God and true man.  Help me to share this wonderful good news with many.