We see Palm Sunday in John’s Gospel today. John usually does not quote a lot of the Old Testament; that is left to the other Gospels. It is significant to me that John does just that in our reading today. He pulls from the prophets to tell us that Jesus is the Messiah. He is fulfilling the role of Messiah as put forth there, but no one, disciples included, really understood what He was doing. He was showing us kingly humility. The greatest in His kingdom is the servant of all. To be great, one must serve. The first must be last. This is the way in Jesus’s kingdom.

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Good morning! It’s a blessing to be with you on this wonderful Thursday as we continue our study of the Gospel of John. Today, we’re diving into John 12:9-19, which presents the familiar yet powerful scene of Palm Sunday.

This passage is filled with profound moments and reactions. First, notice how Lazarus is central to the narrative. The people came not only to see Jesus but also Lazarus, whose resurrection had ignited a wave of faith. This was such a threat to the religious leaders that they even plotted to kill Lazarus as well. Lazarus’ resurrection had become a testimony that couldn’t be ignored, fueling the people’s belief in Jesus.

Now, let’s shift to the triumphal entry, where Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey as the crowd shouts, “Hosanna!” and waves palm branches. This scene is rich with Old Testament prophecy, especially from Zechariah, which declares that the Messiah would come riding humbly on a donkey. For those witnessing this moment, it was clear: Jesus was making a bold statement about His identity as the Messiah.

What strikes me most here is the contrast between the way Jesus enters Jerusalem and how we might expect a king to arrive. Think about how earthly kings are usually depicted—in power, glory, and strength, often on magnificent horses or grand carriages. They are symbols of might and authority. But Jesus chooses humility. He rides on a lowly donkey, showing us a different kind of kingship—one marked not by earthly power but by humility and servanthood.

The Pharisees’ frustration is almost palpable. They watch in disbelief, saying, “The whole world has gone after Him!” They’re witnessing a movement they feel powerless to stop. And they’re right. The world was, and still is, captivated by this kind of king—the one who serves rather than rules, who comes to give life instead of wielding power.

It’s important to understand that even Jesus’ disciples didn’t fully grasp what was happening at the time. They expected the Messiah to be a political leader, someone who would overthrow the Roman oppressors and restore Israel to power. But Jesus’ kingdom was not of this world. He was not coming to establish earthly dominance, but rather to usher in a spiritual reign that transcended political boundaries. It wasn’t until after His resurrection and glorification that the disciples finally understood the full meaning of these events.

And so, this passage invites us to reflect on the nature of true greatness in the kingdom of God. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was an invitation to consider what it means to be king and what it means to follow Him. In His kingdom, greatness is measured by humility and service, not power or status. He said, “The last shall be first, and the first shall be last.” The greatest in His kingdom are not those who exalt themselves, but those who serve others.

In Matthew 20:28, Jesus reminds us that He came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. He calls us to do the same—to lay aside our desires for earthly power and recognition, and instead to take up the mantle of service. The world sees power and strength as signs of greatness, but Jesus redefines greatness as humility and love.

So, as we reflect on this passage today, let’s ask ourselves: how are we living out this call to humility? Are we seeking to serve others, even when it’s inconvenient? Are we willing to follow Jesus on the path of servanthood, even when it doesn’t align with our own desires for recognition or success?

Remember, Jesus shows us in His actions that the path to true greatness is through humble service. May we, like Him, seek to serve rather than be served, and may we always point others to the King who rides in humility, yet reigns in glory.

Thanks for joining me today, and I look forward to continuing our study tomorrow when we pick up with verse 20 of John chapter 12. Have a blessed day!