Luke 19:28-40
This is Professor Sarah Ruden’s translation from chapter 19 verses 35-37.
“And they brought him (colt) to Jesus and threw their cloaks over the colt, and they mounted Jesus on him. And as he made his journey, they spread their cloaks down on the road. And when he drew near the path down the mountain with the olive trees, the whole crowd of his students, in their joy, began to praise god with loud shouts for all the acts of power they had seen.”
All the hallmarks of a staged political and religious demonstration are present. Jesus ceremoniously rides into Jerusalem. This act must have caused both excitement and ire.
How do we know this is a political/religious demonstration?
Many knew their scriptural stories so they joined in with hope and joy. A taste of the splendor and honor implied by the ceremonious ride on a horse is found in Esther 6:7-11. There were those who thought the end was coming soon and hoped this triumphal entry street drama would make the end a reality. Zachariah 9:9 mentions how the divine warrior will ride into Jerusalem on the foal of an ass, a sign of peace and God’s deliverance. (However, the king is not the savior but is being saved by God for the purpose to lead God’s people.) Also, some believed the great battle starts on the Mount of Olives where a trial will separate the good and bad people ushering in the new age (kingdom). You’ll find that idea in Zachariah 14:4. Finally there’s the announcement of a future king (Solomon) who is paraded around Jerusalem on a donkey found in 1 Kings 1:33-40. Many of the religious people on this pilgrimage knew these stories, recognized the satire, had hope that Jesus would fulfill what they thought should happen, and no matter what the religious beliefs might be, all would know it’s a threat to Rome’s power.
What’s at stake?
For the crowd, the freedom to run their own country as promised by God is at stake. For the Romans and some leaders of Jerusalem, this demonstration threatens their rule and more importantly their pocket books. Sukkot and Passover pilgrimages are big money makers.
What does the demonstration mean to Luke’s way of thinking?
Luke says Jesus is the coming true king who brings peace. One way to understand this is how Jesus announces God’s Kingdom is already here among us and within us. In effect a person can live free with God despite the ruling party. The king of peace (Jesus on a donkey) uses God’s spirit to heal and transform people into a new freedom with God. One’s enemies will no longer lord their power over another but will become servants of the people. Then Luke says you can’t stop people’s hopes and dreams founded in God’s Spirit.
Questions for Reflection:
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When self-talk demeans one’s self or another, remind yourself how God sees you and others. Chase away negative thoughts and words with God’s understanding, care, and peace.
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Many joined in the disciples’ demonstration, what cause might motivate you to demonstrate?
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What is something you can do for someone else that demonstrates care, especially for someone who can’t repay you.
Prayer:
God of Grace, Mercy, and Peace, your disciples stage a demonstration that sets in motion a lot of fears and pushback. And yet, your trust in God’s grace gives you a power to be free even if that means a death upon a cross. Let the power of your presence enable us to endure our struggles with your joy.
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