Imagine the Lagos Ibadan Expressway during a festive rush. The noise, the sirens, the display of power as convoys force their way through the crowd. Now imagine a man of great influence entering that same road not in a bulletproof SUV, but on a bicycle, smiling at weary travelers. The contrast is not just surprising. It is a quiet revolution.
Two thousand years ago, Jerusalem witnessed a similar contrast. As the Roman Governor Pilate likely entered the city from the west with military strength and intimidation, a humble Carpenter from Nazareth entered from the east on a borrowed donkey. One came to assert control. The other came to bring salvation. One trusted in force. The other trusted in sacrifice.
As we reflect on Palm Sunday, we are not simply remembering a historic procession. We are making a spiritual and moral choice. This moment calls us to examine what kind of King we truly follow, especially in a world where power is often mistaken for oppression and influence is mistaken for dominance.
“Rejoice greatly, Daughter of Zion. Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem. See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey.” — Zechariah 9:9
In ancient culture, a king who rode a horse came for war. A king who rode a donkey came in peace. Jesus chose the donkey. His authority was not proven by display, but by identity. He made Himself accessible.
He came close enough to be touched, unlike distant rulers surrounded by fear and protocol.
The crowd expected a Lion who would overthrow Rome. God gave them a Lamb who would take away sin. Often, what we think we need is not what God knows will save us.
The streets of Jerusalem were filled with excitement.“Hosanna.
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.” — Matthew 21:9
Palm branches waved. Garments were laid on the ground. Yet Jesus saw beyond the celebration. He saw hearts that were not fully surrendered.
They wanted a King to change their situation, but not a Lord to change their lives.
Let us bring this closer to home in Nigeria. Every Sunday, churches are full. Voices are lifted. Hands are raised. But by Monday, the same voices compromise truth in business. The same hands that were lifted in worship become tools for injustice. The same hearts that shouted praise become hardened in daily living.
“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” — James 1:22
Imagine a politician visiting a community in Abuja. People gather and cheer. They shout his name because they expect something in return. If he returns without offering benefits, the crowd disappears.This is what happened in Jerusalem. They shouted Hosanna when they thought Jesus would meet their expectations. When He did not, their voices changed.“Crucify Him.” — Luke 23:21
In our society, there is also the culture of “Oga.” We expect leaders to be distant, powerful, and untouchable. We measure leadership by status, not by service.
I recall a story of a community leader in Abia State. While others competed for recognition during a festival, he was found helping an elderly woman repair her damaged roof after heavy rain. He did not seek applause. His actions spoke louder than titles. That is the spirit of Palm Sunday.
The highest calling is not position. It is service. To the political class, Palm Sunday reminds us that power is a trust. If the King of Kings could ride a donkey, no leader is too important to serve the least.
To church leaders, we must guard against a faith that is comfortable but disconnected. Christ was found among the people, not hidden in prestige.
To every believer, do not let your Hosanna today become rejection tomorrow when God does not meet your expectations.
Faith must be consistent. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” — Mark 10:45
This week, reflect deeply. Identify your donkey. What humble gift or opportunity can God use through you to bring peace to someone around you. Lay down your cloak. What pride, ego, or resentment must you surrender for God to truly reign in your life. As you reflect on Palm Sunday, ask yourself honestly, are you following the King or just following the crowd.
In your quiet time, share one practical way you will demonstrate servant leadership in your home, workplace, or community this week. Let your faith move beyond words into action.Peace be unto you, AMEN.
The Rev. Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles, Senior Minister, Triumphant Methodist Church Nigeria, Abuja, FCT. He can be reached on Telephone: 08065908173.
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