The King Who Came Riding on a Donkey
The way someone uses authority tells us something about them. Matthew asks us to notice the King coming into Jerusalem: Jesus, arriving as the Scriptures had promised.
See, your king comes to you,
(Matthew 21:5, NIV, excerpt)
Jesus sent two disciples to bring a donkey and her colt. Matthew connected His entry with the prophet’s picture of a gentle king riding on a donkey. The crowds spread cloaks and branches on the road and welcomed Him with shouts. The city asked who He was. This King was entering the city where He would give His life.
Let the character of the King shape your influence
We can pause over the gentleness of Jesus without losing sight of His authority. He is worthy of worship and obedience, and the way He comes helps us understand the kind of King we follow.
Where do you have influence today? You may be guiding a child, leading a team, or helping someone learn a new task. Consider how your words and manner could reflect patient, truthful care.
You can give a clear instruction with kindness. You can listen to a concern before responding. You can acknowledge a mistake without making someone feel small.
Read the entry into Jerusalem again and let your attention rest on Jesus. As we honor Him, we can ask Him to shape the way we use whatever influence has been entrusted to us.
A prayer
King Jesus, You are worthy of our worship and obedience. Teach us to follow Your gentleness and use our influence with truth, patience, and love. Amen.
Read Matthew 21:1-11 in the NIV.
Keep reading: Learning to Take the Lower Seat · When We Argue About Who Matters Most.
Free artwork for you
Gentleness belongs to the King we follow.
Open the full-size artwork to save or print · Save this artwork on Pinterest