Daily Devotional for Thursday, April 23

The Parade for Jesus

“And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way. And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. Luke 19:36-38.

As Jesus made His way toward Jerusalem, He approached the Mount of Olives and sent two disciples to find a colt. This colt, never ridden before, was to carry the King of kings into the city—not in royal splendor, but in humble majesty. The disciples obeyed, and just as Jesus said, they found the colt and brought it to Him. Laying their garments upon it, they set Jesus thereon.   

What followed was more than a simple procession—it was a divine declaration. The people began to rejoice with loud voices, praising God for all the mighty works they had seen. It was a parade not of worldly fame, but of heavenly fulfillment.   

The Pharisees, disturbed by the noise and the crowd’s adoration, told Jesus to rebuke His disciples. But Jesus replied, “I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out” (verse 40). Creation itself was ready to praise Him, if the people would not. This moment signaled the arrival of the true King—not with swords and armies, but with peace and purpose.   

This parade was a celebration, but it was also a crossroads. The crowd praised Him that day, but many would soon turn away. Jesus knew this, and yet He came anyway. His ride into Jerusalem was not for show—it was for salvation.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY 

Jesus deserves more than a moment of praise—He deserves a lifetime of devotion. May your heart be a constant parade of worship for the King.

Steven Ridings