The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them (Matt. 21:6).
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
I love a parade. The colorful uniforms, waving flags, and pompous music all create a mood of celebration and joy. It’s fun to stand on the sidelines and watch bands and drill teams march in synchronized steps. Often hometown celebrities wave from shiny convertibles and decorated floats.
But I recall parades where I wasn’t a spectator. As the drum major’s shrill whistle blew, I marched forward with my high school band. I followed every signal, watching from the corner of my eye to keep in line with other trumpet players. I wanted our band to score high with the judges and win another trophy.
This past week we celebrated Palm Sunday. Perhaps you could call it a parade. Waving palm branches, shouts of “Hosanna in the highest,” and an honored celebrity were part of the procession. The atmosphere was jubilant as King Jesus rode into Jerusalem, not on a fancy float but on the foal of a donkey. Crowds honored him with cheers and spread cloaks on the road before him. (You can read the story in Matthew 21:1-11.)
Perhaps like me, you’ve heard the story before. But when I reread it, Matthew 21:6 stood out to me: “The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them.” They didn’t question him or say, “We can’t walk up to a stranger’s barn and take his animals.” They simply did as Jesus asked.
Just as my marching band followed instructions to gain the approval of parade officials and earn a fading award, even more so may we obey God’s Word and reap eternal rewards from our heavenly Judge.
Prayer: Sovereign God, thank you for the disciples’ trust and obedience. Help me follow their example and honor you. May I keep in step with your desires for my life and live in obedience to your Word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Lydia E. Harris no longer plays her trumpet, but her five grandkids enjoy tooting on it when they visit. Known as “Grandma Tea,” Lydia has written Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting, a Bible study that helps grandparents pass on their faith. Lydia and her husband of 45 years are intentional about passing on a godly legacy as they listen for another trumpet–announcing Christ’s return.
Reading God’s Story Schedule today, 3/27/13: Judges 6-9.
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About Lydia Harris
Lydia E. Harris is happily married to Milt, her sweetheart for 48 years. She has two married children, five grandkids, and is the author of a Bible study, "Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting" (AMG Publishers, 2010 release). She's also a tea enthusiast and writes the column "A Cup of Tea with Lydia."
