There are some who scoff at calling Christ’s entry into Jerusalem just days before He was crucified “triumphant.” Certainly His enemies were plotting. Certainly the king like entry alarmed the religious leaders and, humanly speaking, seemed to seal His fate. God foresaw the crucifixion, however. It was all part of His plan of salvation; therefore, without any misgivings, Jesus entered the city triumphantly, for He knew that the prophecy regarding the Messiah had to be fulfilled (Zech. 9:9).

The world alternately scorns Christians and then expresses amazement at Christian behavior. We should not be surprised, for “the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (I Cor. 2:14). We reign by serving (Mark 10:42-44). We are exalted by being humble (Matt. 23:12). We become wise by being fools for Christ’s sake (I Cor. 1:20-21). We are made free by becoming His servants (Rom. 6:10). We become stronger by becoming weak (II Cor. 12:10). We find victory by glorifying in our infirmities (vss. 7-9). We live by dying (John 12:24-25).

Let us press on to find our place and assignment in that wonderful kingdom! Let us thank God that He has graciously extended to us an opportunity to join the crowd of witnesses on earth and in heaven whose supreme joy it is to accompany the king. Is there a greater privilege? Sacrifice, lowly service, and death may amaze those who are watching. “What a waste!” they may exclaim as Judas did when he saw the precious ointment poured out on Jesus. The witness of that crowd in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday has been swelled by thousands in every century since. The cries of Hosanna in the highest!” (Mark 11:10) have become a mighty chorus. Let us not delay an hour more! In spirit, let us join it!