Easter plans are in full swing, and goodies for the children are ready for their baskets. There are eggs to hunt and dinners to make. It’s easy to get caught up in all the festivities and forget the true meaning of why you celebrate this time of year.
Much like Christmas, the commercial festivities have often overtaken the real reason why Jesus came to this earth, which was to fulfill His purpose to seek and save that which was lost. Palm Sunday is the official kick-off of this season, and preachers across the country have their messages prepared for this special Sunday.
Some clergy even bring in palm leaves for some congregation members to wave. This symbolic act can transport your mind to another time and place when the Messiah was about to be crucified. While these traditions are ways to remember these biblical historical events, nothing could ever compare to being there that day.
The Famous Ride Through Jerusalem
The King of all Kings made His way down the streets of Jerusalem and into the masses of people that gathered to see Him. They were friends, neighbors, relatives, and strangers, yet He loved them enough to die for them. Unlike other kings in the bible that preferred the fanfare and wanted to be noticed, Jesus was nothing more than a humble servant of heaven.
He made His grand entrance into this city on a donkey down the streets He likely traveled many times. Did they really know who was in their presence that day? Did they comprehend that this Man was God robed in the flesh? Many scholars say the people had no clue as they were quick to crucify Him just a few days later.
If you were there that day, do you think you would have turned and sided with the crowds, or would you have stood in defense of Jesus? It’s always easy to look back on things and see them so clearly, but the crowd was confused by the rulings from the Sanhedrin courts.
The prophet Isaiah foretold of His journey, and in Isaiah 53:7, he stated that He was led like a lamb to be slaughtered, but He didn’t utter a word. What a wonderful Savior who accepted His life’s plan and didn’t murmur or complain.
Could you have done the same if they plucked the hairs from your beard or drove nails into your hands and feet? Surely, it was a pain that no one could ever endure, and His body was so weak before this all began that He needed help carrying His cross. Still, He didn’t complain.
Prayers for Palm Sunday
The Lord of all left the splendor of heaven, and He knew it was His destiny. He took His place on a lonely hill in Golgotha, and there He laid down His life for you and every other person in this world. Here are some prayers that can help you to express to the Master your gratitude for all He’s done for you.
A Prayer of Thanks
Jesus, as we celebrate the day of Palm Sunday, let me never forget what really happened on this day. It’s a time for me to celebrate the final part of Your journey on earth by riding through Jerusalem. You were on a mission not for attention, but you were there to save my soul.
Eternal life is now possible thanks to You and Your sacrifice. You understood the torment awaiting you, but You were never diverted from completing the father’s will. Your agape love and subservience to this plan saved me, and I will forever live for you. Amen
A Prayer with a Heavy Heart
Jesus, my heart is heavy today. Sometimes I feel so helpless. I know you hear me when I pray, and You will rescue me in my times of trouble. Today, I remember the day you made the journey through Jerusalem and the people who shouted praises to you.
If I were there, I would have been yelling “Hosannah, Hosannah” with the rest of the crowd, for You are worthy of all the praise. I have fears and anxieties, and I hand them to you. I ask that You give me the peace that only You can provide.
I need rest for my body and my mind. I remember your example and how you suffered and were oppressed by many, and I glory in the selflessness that you displayed. I pray that You would draw me closer to you on this Palm Sunday and let me realize that my home is not on this earth but in heaven with you. Amen
A Prayer of Unselfishness
Lord, I come before you today with a heart of thanksgiving. When I remember the great sacrifice, You made, I am amazed. You took on all our debts and freed your people from the enemy’s curses. For your selfless act, I glorify You.
Today, I celebrate your son’s famous ride through the streets of Jerusalem on the donkey. Palm Sunday just isn’t another day for me, but I celebrate this day as it was the start of the journey toward my freedom. You knew your son would suffer a tremendous amount of pain, but You asked Him to do this for redemption. It was an unselfish act that changed the destiny of humanity.
Let me never forget where you’ve brought me from and my purpose in life. While I live on the earth with my family, my mind is on the mansion waiting for me in glory. Thank you again for your unwavering love and devotion to a sinner like me. Amen
A Prayer of Triumph and Victory
Lord, it must have been hard living in Bible times. People didn’t have the right to ask forgiveness for their sins, but they needed a high priest to go into the Holy of Holies and make a petition. Finding a spotless lamb to offer as a sacrifice was a lot of work, but you abolished that when you provided the perfect sacrificial lamb in your son Jesus.
The ride through Jerusalem symbolized the victory of your plan, as Jesus delivered Himself right to the enemy’s hand. Please help me never forget the great sacrifice for my freedom. I want to live my life in a pleasing way to You, so help me every day to be a better person. Amen
A Prayer of Praise
Jesus, you fulfilled the prophetic words spoken by Zechariah so many years ago. You were the King, and you humbled yourself to ride on the back of a donkey. The son of God came to take on the sins of the world. Though You came in peace, You were met with great torture and abuse.
I declare that You are the son of God and my King. Despite my sinful nature, You still love me. The love You showed to me, and everyone on this planet was immense and far beyond anything anyone has ever done. I use your selfishness as my motivation throughout life.
I will sing the praises of You, the Savior who conquered death, hell, and the grave. I will never cease to worship all my days. You’re forever, my King! Amen
A Prayer of Adoration
Heavenly Father, I appreciate you. You came from heaven down to earth just to show us the way. You were humble that day as you rode the donkey on Palm Sunday.
The sufferings you went through on the cross were more than any person should ever bear. However, your goal was to go to the cross to pay my debts. I am so glad the story didn’t end there, as you rose from the grave to show us that we, can have victory and blessed hope. Today I celebrate You, my risen King. Amen
Scripture Readings for Palm Sunday
Here are some scriptures you can read and share with your family on Palm Sunday.
• John 12:13
• Revelation 7:9
• Leviticus 23:40
• Matthew 21:1-11
• Jeremiah 10:5
• Psalm 92:12
• 1 Kings 6:29
• Exodus 15:27
• Song of Songs 7:7
• Luke 19:28-44