I. Introduction

Many people have a passion for sports; some actively participate in specific sports, while others prefer to watch them, as is the case for myself. Both my husband and I love watching tennis, which works out well since he is a tennis player. Some people enjoy sports such as baseball, basketball, and football, as well as engaging in cultural activities like music, theatre, and various other performances. In each of these areas, we may have encountered someone we admire and watch and follow. Admiration for an individual often arises from recognizing their qualities that evoke feelings of appreciation and support, as well as their adherence to ethical standards. If someone is trusted and their conviction is strong, others will follow their actions and words.

II. Jesus on His way to Jerusalem

In our passage, we see Jesus leaving the area of Bethany to go to Jerusalem. He has now arrived at a point where he must confront serious threats to his life. Despite the perilous journey, he remains steadfast in his convictions and beliefs, understanding the purpose for which he was sent to this world by God. He would leave all the familiar places and people behind as He approached Jerusalem. Bethany was special, because that was where His friends Martha, Mary and Lazarus lived. From there He traveled to Bethphage, an important stop where He would end His travels by foot and ask that a special colt be brought to Him. This part of His journey has been prophesied by Zechariah 9 v 9 about a King on a donkey who would enter Jerusalem. During that period, the colt was associated with peace and humility. A monarch entering Jerusalem would be welcomed with a royal ceremony involving religious, political, and other leaders, speeches and special celebratory events welcoming this dignitary. Jesus did not embody the typical characteristics of a worldly king. He demonstrated humility in all aspects and came as a King of peace, sent by God. He delivered messages of peace and love and engaged with individuals from impoverished backgrounds and marginalized groups within society. He had a divine mission to bring peace and unite people from all walks of life.

At the Mount of Olives, He and His disciples could see Jerusalem. As He traveled down the Mountain to Jerusalem, a crowd of disciples praised God loudly for the mighty works they had seen Him do, according to Luke. He was their King, not of earthly royalty, but one who transformed lives, as they saw and experienced. They sang Psalm 118, which is a psalm used for the enthronement of a King. They threw their cloaks on the road, an expression of royalty for the One whom they are welcoming into the city. The Pharisees present in the crowd found this situation intolerable. They opposed the actions of the crowd and instructed Jesus to stop and rebuke them for their behavior. It was threatening to them. In fact, Jesus was a threat to their establishment, and He must stop what was happening. Jesus replied that even if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out! This is a reference to Matthew 3 v9 where John scolded the Pharisees and Sadducees saying that "Out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham." David Garland and Clinton E Arnold in their commentary on Luke emphasized that here "with his death looming, He allows this word by the crowds to be proclaimed all the way down the mountain to the temple." He was so filled with the Spirit of God, and being surrounded by the masses of His disciples, He felt carried forward on this journey, knowing that everything will be all right, even though He would lose His life.

III. Conclusion

On this Palm Sunday we remember that journey of Christ, and the massive crowds of disciples who surrounded Him on His way to Jerusalem. They followed Him because of His love and compassion, His actions, His manner of speaking, and respectful treatment toward them. This call to continue to follow Him comes to us, the crowds of today as well, even when we are told to be quiet. To follow Him means we follow Someone who stands for everything that makes life better for all people. He is the Son of God, the King of Kings, who died for His convictions and just actions. His message of love for God and all people, irrespective of their diverse beliefs and cultures, is what we as Christ's followers are called to do. His example of selfless love for humanity should be regarded as more significant than the admiration we typically afford for our sports idols and other prominent figures. May we all draw inspiration from His example, listen to His guidance, and strive to create a world that is just and filled with love. Amen.