THE STORY OF JESUS: Mark 11:8-11, Psalm 118
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Mark 11:9; Psalm 118:26)
The people are excited, they are hopeful Jesus is the One.
They start singing from their sacred song book (Psalms), words that inspire and encourage.
Their excitement stems from two things:
(1) Their shame and suffering at being occupied and oppressed by Romans!
(2) Their confidence in God’s promise of deliverance and restored national glory!
Psalm 118 expresses this hope as well: “When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.” (Psalm 118:5-7)
Jesus inspires this kind of excitement and hope… and still does today.
Not that our enemies suddenly disappear, or our problems suddenly end.
But He is the One that will one day set things straight and restore God’s kingdom glory.
He may appear weak on a colt, but He is backed by Mighty God.
“I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” (Psalm 118:13-14)
This is a victory parade before the victory occurs: “The Lord is God, and he has made his light shine on us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar.” (Psalm 118:27)
Are you in a tough place, are you feeling beaten down or without hope?
Look up at Jesus, look at Who He is, what He says, what He does.
Hear Him say to you, “Take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
And join in the praise parade, whether you see it or feel it or not.
“You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you.” (Psalm 118:28)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, despite setbacks and uncertainties, I will join in Your praise parade. You are with me in my struggle. You will bring me into Your victory! My hope is in You!