Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: Luke 19:28–40; Matthew 21:1–5
Then they brought it to Jesus. They threw their cloaks on the colt and sat Jesus on them. As he went, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was now getting near, at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works which they had seen. Vs 35-36
Reflection
Jesus could have chosen war horses and silver chariots. Instead, He sends for a borrowed donkey. The King of kings rides into Jerusalem on the kind of animal used for everyday work and peaceful procession.
Crowds spread cloaks and branches on the road. They shout, “Hosanna!” and “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!” It looks like a coronation, but Jesus knows what lies ahead: not a throne, but a cross. Still, He comes. Still, He rides.
Matthew notes that this fulfills the prophecy: “Behold, your King comes to you, humble, and riding on a donkey.” The humility is the point. This is what God’s reign looks like when it draws near—not intimidation, but invitation. Not crushing force, but courageous gentleness.
We often want God to arrive in our lives with spectacle—to overpower our enemies, silence our critics, fix everything at once. Instead, He usually comes like this: lowly, near, asking, “Will you welcome Me?”
Love in the wilderness comes riding on a borrowed animal, through ordinary streets, with a heart set on saving those who will soon shout, “Crucify.”
Today, watch for the humble ways Jesus is entering your world.
A Prayer of Presence
Humble King,
You come to me without swagger or force. Open my eyes to recognize Your lowly arrival. Let me spread my own “cloak” of surrender on the road of my everyday life. – Amen
Practice for Today
Welcome Jesus into one very ordinary part of your day—commuting, dishes, work, errands. Whisper “Hosanna” there, asking Him to save and reign in that specific space.
Consider This...
What expectations do I carry about how God “should” show up—and how does Jesus on a donkey challenge those expectations?
Carry This Prayer With You
Breathe in: Humble King…
Breathe out: … ride into my life
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