And when he had said these things, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount that is called Olivet, he sent two of the disciples, saying, “Go into the village in front of you, where on entering you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this: ‘The Lord has need of it.’”
So those who were sent went away and found it just as he had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” And they said, “The Lord has need of it.” They brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it.
And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Luke 19:28-38
Lent Day 05 – When He Draws Near…
Christians around the globe celebrate Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter. On it, we remember the events in Luke 19:28-38 (and also recounted in Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-10, and John 12:12-19).
People throwing their cloaks down on the ground in front of Jesus riding into town on a young colt. Then, they cut palm branches and placed them on the road and waved them as they shouted out praises as Jesus road by.
Preparing for drawing near to Jesus
I find it so interesting that when the disciples started taking this colt, the colt’s owner rightfully asks where they are taking it.
Their only response?
“The Lord has need of it.”
Apparently, the owner is perfectly fine with them taking his property for this reason.
Open Hands
I hope I would respond like this. When the Lord has need of something of mine, that I would offer it freely and without reservation.
As I use Lent to draw near to Jesus, I hope I have open hands, not grasping onto my possessions but using them willingly for His purposes.
A Response of Praise
Then, as soon as Jesus draws near to the crowds on that same colt, the people’s response is one of praise and giving.
As we draw near to Jesus, let us respond to Him with praise and giving from open hands and open hearts.
Action Step:
Our Focus today is the EASTER STORY!
Easter Story: We will take days throughout Lent to learn different events leading up to the resurrection of Jesus.
Today, let’s offer up praise to our Savior. Take a few moments right now and throughout the day to thank Him for all He has done.
Is there something God is asking you to use for His purposes with open hands and hearts today? Let’s give Him an unreserved “YES!”
Prayer:
Dear God, let my answer to You always be “YES!” We praise You for sending Your Son for us! You are glorious and worthy of all our praise! In Jesus’ name, amen.
