Mark 11:1-11

There was an atmosphere of revolution in Jerusalem and Judea. The people waited for and wanted an earthly king to free them from the oppression of the Romans. Already terrorist groups were organized and striking out. The priests were passionate about not having a rebellion. They held positions of power and privilege and any rebellion could threaten their good living. The Pharisees for their part would only participate if they were sure that God was inspiring the rebellion and therefore would succeed.  That is why they demand a sign from heaven. Everyone had an agenda for and strong opinions about the coming Messiah and His kingdom.  In this context Jesus has the triumphal entry. 

Jesus' divine insight directed the disciples to a colt at a certain door that is owned by one who will send it for the use of God. The phrase in verse 3 “the Lord has need of it” is provoking. The Lord, God in flesh, has a need. That expression ought to stick us in the heart. The One who created the universe is in need. What gentle condescension humbling Himself to the point He needs us. In the work of ministry the Lord has need of us.

The crowds gather around Jesus as He rides the colt into town. Some gave clothes for a saddle others paved the way with garments and others gave by covering the road with leaves and branches. All did what they could do. This throng was, no doubt, at its core Jesus’ traveling companions. Beyond this core of His supporters were pilgrims that arrived independently and there were those from the local area as well. They cried, “Hosanna.”  More than a liturgical word, a catchphrase, or cliché it was a one-word prayer. They were saying, “Save us we beg.” If you wanted to start a rebellion you would have a hard time finding a better campaign slogan than the one they chanted. 

Only the book of Mark reports of Jesus' return to Bethany. Israel thought they were ready.  They all thought they were ready for the Messiah to come.  Jesus disagreed. When Jesus looked around the temple was He on a scouting mission? That would hardly have been needed. Was He looking for Himself to get a first-hand assessment of the situation like the two who went to Sodom? No, that is not the case either. Whatever else we can learn, Jesus has perfect timing. While we always think we are ready we are almost always off in our own timing.  But Jesus' timing is perfect.  He looked around and left.  It was a sort of living lesson.  Was that anti-climatic? Perhaps.  Was it disappointing? Maybe.  Some may have thought that it was a missed opportunity.  Whatever we may think, Jesus looked around and left, the time was not right.