Kevin Wilson 360

The Narrative of Jesus’ Life

The below passage describes Jesus entering Jerusalem. It is ironic he receives such praise and honor, given Jesus has already predicted his death and resurrection.

Excerpt from the Gospel

Mark 11: 1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples 2 and said to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it. 3 If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord has need of it and will send it back here immediately.’” 4 And they went away and found a colt tied at a door outside in the street, and they untied it. 5 And some of those standing there said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” 6 And they told them what Jesus had said, and they let them go. 7 And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. 8 And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. 9 And those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! 10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!” (ESV)

Sharing your Faith

• How is Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem ironic? For background, read Luke 9:22 and 18:31-33.
• Throwing cloaks on the ground before Jesus was a symbol that Jesus is royalty. What symbols of Jesus are found in your church building? What are found in your home?
• Share about an especially memorable experience of praising God.

Pray for One Another

Each person is invited to share a prayer request. Another participant will volunteer to offer the petition. Once everyone has chosen a prayer request, take turns offering the prayers aloud.

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This devotion is for the First Sunday in Advent, following the LCMS three-year lectionary. You can download a free copy of all the Conversations about Faith & Life devotions for 2017-2018 on the Resources page.