Sunday Scripture:
Luke 19:28-40 (Jesus enters Jerusalem)
Luke 19:28-40 (Jesus enters Jerusalem)
- Tell the story: Jesus had entered Jerusalem before, but this time was very different. He came in like a king, riding a donkey while people proclaimed him as Messiah.
- Read Luke 19:28-40
- Read page 249 in the Shine On story Bible.
- Prime the pump:
- Things to notice:
- Many of us wave palm branches (or sustainable versions of them) on Palm Sunday. But this story doesn’t mention them! All four of the gospels tell this story, and Matthew and Mark mention “leafy branches” and “branches from the trees.” Only John specifically talks about palm branches. Basically, the people took whatever branches were available and used them to welcome their messiah. Read John 12:12-19, Matthew 21:1-11 and Mark 11:1-11 and see what other differences you notice.
- Background information:
- A common misconception is that Jesus riding in on a donkey instead of a fine horse was a symbol of him as a servant king. But that is reading the passage with a modern lense. Riding on a mule or donkey (which are of course different animals, but their names are used interchangeably in the Bible) was a kingly thing to do. Read 1 Kings 1:33-40 for an example. Waving branches and spreading cloaks on the ground were known as ways to greet a king.
- Verse 38 is a combination of Psalm 118:26, Zechariah 9:9, and what was called the Hallel prayer. Read those to get a glimpse of what all was in the minds of the people greeting Jesus.
- Conversation starters:
- Read Luke 40. This verse is one example of creation worshiping God. What are some other examples of this that we have encountered so far? Do you think it means the stones would actually make noise?
- Activity prompt: Hosanna parade
- Go outside and find a branch or leaf from nature close to your house. Being careful not to hurt the plant it comes from, claim it as your “leafy branch.”
- Do your own palm processional around your home. Maybe you even want to take it outside and give the neighbors something to talk about.