Jesus is now going public. All along, He had been doing everything in a low profile. His birth was not noticed by many. His baptism was not a well-publicized event. After performing a miracle, He would often say not to tell anyone. Only three of His disciples had witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus, and He told them not to reveal it to anyone until He had risen from the dead.

So far, He had done everything discreetly. But on Palm Sunday, He rode on a donkey and publicly presented Himself as the King. He did this during the Passover festival when Jerusalem was filled with people. Bible teachers estimate that around 2.5 million people might have visited during that time.

Jesus rode on a donkey that had never been ridden before. The Jews knew that only a king could ride on such a donkey. Yes—a new King, a special King, coming in a procession to the capital city, Jerusalem.

Those who joined the procession shouted, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” The crowd chose their words carefully when greeting and welcoming Jesus. They could have said, “Messiah, welcome,” “Hail, Son of David!” or “Hurrah, King of the Jews!” But instead, they used the verse from Psalm 118:26: “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!”

Yes, they wanted to be politically correct—and they were right in saying it. Jesus is indeed blessed. They had seen His blessed works. People had witnessed that Jesus was very special. He demonstrated authority over sickness, demons, nature, and even death. He also has the power to forgive sins. He is indeed blessed. They also knew that such deeds were only possible for one who was sent by God. Therefore, they boldly said, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!”—a fitting recognition of who Jesus is.

As we embark on Holy Week, may we spend more time knowing and recognizing who Jesus truly is. Someone once said, “If you have Jesus, you have everything.” May the dear Lord help us to know Jesus more and more. God bless!