Palm Sunday Reflections

I’ve read the story of the triumphal entry countless times, but something new stood out to me last week as I read it again. You can find this story in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. When you compare these accounts, a shared detail caught my attention. Jesus sent two disciples to complete a task, but their names weren’t mentioned. After they returned from their assignment, they did something meaningful (check out Matthew 21:7, Mark 11:7, and Luke 19:35). It’s a small act, but it speaks volumes. 

Before we discuss that act, I want to share some questions for you to consider as you reflect on this story.

1.    What is my assignment? 

After Jesus died, rose, and ascended, He gave all believers the Great Commission (Matthew 28). But beyond this, He assigns each of us a specific task, just as He sent the two disciples for the colt. Take a moment to ask yourself, "What is my assignment? What specific purpose does Jesus have for me?"

2.    Who are my helpers? 

Jesus didn’t send the disciples alone. He sent them two by two, reminding us that two are better than one. We all need divine helpers to support us in fulfilling our assignments. So, who has God already chosen to assist you?

3.    Where is my assignment? 

Jesus gave these disciples a clear destination to fulfill their task. He sent them to the village opposite Bethpage. Have you identified where God is calling you to go?

4.    What are the instructions?

Knowing your assignment is only half the equation. Once you’re at your destination, it’s vital to know and follow the specific instructions God has given you. What does He want you to do when you arrive?

5.    Am I following His plan? 

The two disciples followed Jesus' instructions exactly, even when questioned about why they were untying the donkey. They answered as He told them to. Are you sticking to God’s plan, or are you deviating to follow your own?

6.    What report will you bring back? 

When you follow God’s instructions and complete your task faithfully, you’ll have a positive report to bring back. What kind of report are you working toward?

Now, back to the disciples and the act I mentioned earlier.

After completing their task and bringing the donkey to Jesus, the disciples took off their own cloaks and laid them on the donkey for Jesus to sit on. How amazing is that? It wasn’t just the crowd that honored Jesus by laying down cloaks and palm branches for Him to ride over. These two disciples were the first to show that act of devotion. 

Here’s the big question:

What kind of honor are you laying down for Jesus?

When others see how you honor Him, it can inspire them to do the same. The disciples’ small gesture set the tone for a larger celebration. It’s a reminder that what we do in faith and love can encourage others around us.

This shifted my perspective. I’ve always focused on the crowd and their celebration, but this time, I’m left thinking about how it was the disciples who took that first step to honor Jesus.

What about you? How can you show honor to Jesus today in a way that encourages others to do the same?