We call it Palm Sunday. It was a parade day for the folks in Jerusalem. The city was crowded with those who had come to observe Passover. It was a joyous celebration. Little impromptu parades may have been happening all over the city. One was different. It was led by a Man riding on a donkey. He was surrounded by friends, well-wishers, and the curious. This parade was different for people were shouting "hosanna"! Some may have whispered excitedly, "He is the miracle worker! He's going to be our king! He will free us from the Romans!". When that idea spread among the people they began to react in amazing ways. Some quickly cut branches from the palm trees and waved them. Others threw their garments in front of the donkey. The people began to cry. "Freedom is coming.".
Jesus also began to cry. His tears were not of joy. They were of sorrow, for he saw the beautiful city before him and his heart was broken for the people there. They were going to reject him. Only a few would follow. In just a few years this great city would be a stack of rubble. Not one great stone left on another. The people cried with joy. Jesus cried with sorrow. What a contrast. In five days the cries of joy would change to cries of hate and disappointment. "Crucify Him!!".
And they did.......next Sunday.......the rest of the story.
