Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Psalm 118:26 ESV
Palm Sunday is typically viewed as a day of celebration, marking Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The streets were alive with excitement as crowds gathered to welcome Him, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). The atmosphere that day was filled with joy and anticipation, a King had arrived! But as we look back on this event, we must recognize that many of these people were not true followers of Jesus Christ.
The Crowd’s Cheers: Admiration or Commitment?
The crowd was ecstatic. They recognized Jesus as someone special, even calling Him the “King of Israel” (John 12:13). Their actions seemed sincere—they laid their cloaks on the road and treated Him like royalty (Matthew 21:8-9). Yet, as the week unfolded, their cheers turned to jeers. The same voices that cried “Hosanna!” would soon shout “Crucify Him!” (Luke 23:21). What changed?
It is simple, they were fans not followers. Fans admire from a distance. They cheer when things are exciting and easy. But sacrifice is required to truly follow Jesus Christ. When this reality sinks in, fans fade away. Jesus was not looking for admirers. He desired followers who would deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him (Luke 9:23).
Palm Sunday’s Spiritual Truth
Palm Sunday reminds us that liking Jesus Christ is not enough. The crowd wanted a Messiah who would overthrow Rome and establish an earthly kingdom. They were drawn to what Jesus could do for them, not to who He truly was, the Savior who came to redeem them through His suffering.
This theme is visible throughout Scripture. In John 6, after feeding the five thousand, Jesus confronted the crowd’s superficial commitment: You are seeking me…because you ate your fill of the loaves” (John 6:26). Many people walked away when He explained the cost of following Him (John 6:66). Fans want benefits without commitment while followers embrace Jesus Christ for who He is, even when it’s hard.
The Call to Follow
Jesus does not sugarcoat the cost of discipleship. He said plainly: “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27). Following Christ means surrendering our desires, enduring hardships, and trusting Him completely.
Palm Sunday challenges us to examine our relationship with Jesus. Are we fans who cheer from the sidelines when it’s convenient? Or are we followers who walk with Him through triumph and trial alike? The joy and peace of following Christ far surpasses the fleeting excitement of fandom.
Examine Your Heart
Take a moment to reflect:
Do you admire Jesus for what He can do for you, or do you love Him for who He is?
Are you willing to follow Him even when it costs you something—your comfort, your plans, or your pride?
Let Palm Sunday remind us that Jesus deserves more than our applause. He deserves our lives.
Palm Sunday is bittersweet. It is a celebration that leads to sacrifice. The King who entered Jerusalem in triumph would soon give His life for us. Let us honor Him not just with words but with our lives. After all, Jesus didn’t come to win fans, He came to call followers. May we obediently and joyfully follow Him wherever He leads.
Written by Sam McKeen
