Today is Palm Sunday. The palm branches are symbolic because they were used by the crowd who waved at Jesus Christ when he came to Jerusalem, and they shouted, "Hosanna!" (a Hebrew word which means 'save' and is also used as an exclamation of praise.)
The news on his life-saving sign when He raised Lazarus from the tomb was known by many people so they came to meet him. Basically it was the 'saving' thing. The Savior wanted to save the souls of the people, and those who witnessed the miracles believed in Him and wanted to be saved.
One that is interesting to note is why he preferred to ride on donkey and colt in his triumphant entry to Jerusalem.
Jesus' goal to save people was by way of connecting with the common ones, the needy and the sick -- to save their lives, their souls, by serving them. He was the King, righteous and victorious, but He was humble.
In today's world, there are many people who are low in life but they are arrogant. They feel high when they humiliate other people. They feel triumphant when they can successfully create chaos, conflicts and division with poisonous anger and hatred.
The Palm Sunday reminds us how Jesus had His triumphant entry in Jerusalem, without a bloodshed, riding on a lowly donkey.
If you want to emulate a true servant leader like our Messiah who saves people, speak about peace, not war; about love, not hatred; about compassion, not heartlessness, and; about co-existence, not intolerance. Save by serving, not for selfish interests that you expect something in return, but for the plain joy of doing it.
My close friend handed over some palm leaves to me. Looking at it reminds me to walk humbly with God, as I was raised that way.
I passionately meditate on Luke 14 : 11 --
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.Let us find wisdom to save ourselves and serve others, through and with humility.
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Photo credits -- Pixabay (Lenten palm and donkey)
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