Jesus' Triumphal Entry

(Matthew 21; Mark 11; Luke 19; John 12)

March 29, 2026

Sunday Recap

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Sunday Recap •

Hey Fams!

The triumphal entry presents two contrasting images: the people’s celebration as Christ entered Jerusalem and Jesus’ heartbroken lamentation as He wept over a city full of people He desired to save. Though God’s people seemed overjoyed by the arrival of the Messiah, they did not understand what He would soon endure to pay the price for their sins.

Thousands had gathered in Jerusalem for Passover, one of the largest festivals of the Jewish calendar. Throughout this special week, Israelites came together for special rituals, feasts, and readings of Scripture. But this year was different; the people had received word of a miracle-performing prophet who could perhaps free them from the rule of the Romans. The Israelites expected the long-awaited Messiah to be a conquering king; they were not anticipating a Suffering Servant—the sacrificial Passover Lamb—who would lay down His life for their sins.

Yet, the all-knowing Christ was aware of the torment He would endure at the hands of the Pharisees and Roman authorities, and He received the crowds’ praise even though He knew the masses would soon be calling for His execution. He knew the people of Jerusalem would betray Him, yet He wept for their lost state, nonetheless.

Jesus celebrated Scripture’s promises of “Hosanna”—the salvation of God’s people—and wept for those who would refuse to see God’s love and receive His provision. Thankfully, Christ’s once-and-for-all sacrifice wasn’t just for His followers in the city of Jerusalem at that time; it is for everyone who places true faith in His finished work on the cross.

Lead your children to see that Jesus created all people and cares deeply for them. Pray for their hearts to receive His truth and that they will celebrate the King who has secured eternal salvation for all who repent and believe in Him!

** Next week: The Best Day Ever!