"Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" (Luke, ch. 19, v. 38*)
The Jewish people had long awaited their king. Ordinary people probably imagined a military commander riding a war horse, coming to defeat their enemies and deliver them from Roman rule. The Pharisees and teachers of the law likely wanted an eminent religious leader.
However, the One entering Jerusalem as King is "righteous, gentle, and brings salvation, riding on a donkey" (Zechariah, ch. 9, v. 9*). What the people see and hear from the Lord Jesus Christ does not reflect their expectations. He teaches humility: "If someone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also" (Matthew, ch. 5, v. 39*); to love our enemies: "Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat and persecute you" (Matthew, ch. 5, v. 44*); to serve others: "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave, just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew, ch. 20, v. 26–28*). How radical!
The King of Israel is neither a military commander nor an eminent religious leader. He is meek and humble, dining with prostitutes and sinners to bring them forgiveness and salvation. The Lord Jesus Christ is the true King, who deserves our praise!
What are your notions of a king and messiah? Have you accepted Jesus Christ as the true King in your life?
*Bible quotes are from the Bible, New Translation from the Original Languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013