Donkeys Beat Horses
The passion week, the final week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, culminates in his crucifixion and resurrection. It began with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a significant event during the Jewish festival of Passover when pilgrims gathered in Jerusalem. Just days before this entry, Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead in Bethany, causing a stir among the people and leading many to believe in him (John 12:17-18). As Jesus approached Jerusalem, he sent two disciples ahead to fetch a donkey. This act, where Jesus entered the city amidst shouts of praise and waving palm branches, was a public declaration of his kingship and messianic identity.
As Jesus and his disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the village of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two disciples ahead with instructions to bring him a donkey and its colt, saying, “The Lord needs them.” The disciples did as Jesus instructed, bringing the donkey and colt, and placing their cloaks on them. A large crowd gathered, spreading their cloaks and palm branches on the road, and shouting praises (Matthew 21:9).
The choice of a donkey over a horse is deeply symbolic. In ancient times, a horse was often associated with war and military conquest, while a donkey symbolized peace and humility. By entering Jerusalem on a donkey, Jesus deliberately fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9.
Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt.
This humble mode of transport was a stark contrast to the typical grand entrances of earthly kings who would ride majestic horses, showcasing their power and authority. Jesus’ choice of a donkey emphasized his mission of peace and reconciliation rather than domination and conflict. How does this picture of Jesus compute with your understanding of who Jesus is?
When you ask Jesus for things, do you expect his power to be used to make your life easier or more luxurious? Do you expect that following Jesus will make you wealthier? In some ways it does. The proverbs and teachings found in the Bible cause us to live frugally and responsibly, and those actions do lead to more healthy financial situations. The wisdom of Scripture will make us more successful. It can lead to promotions at work, financial blessings, and investment success. Jesus will make our lives better, but he will also lead us to sacrificial generosity and to humility. The blessed life will be a life that brings glory to God, not to us.
The crowd’s reaction to Jesus’ entry was one of excitement and praise. They spread their cloaks and palm branches on the road, a traditional way to honor someone of great importance. This act of laying down cloaks and waving palm branches demonstrates several key things. By laying their cloaks on the road, the people showed great reverence and humility before Jesus. This was an act of submission, acknowledging Jesus’ authority and kingship. In ancient times, cloaks were valuable possessions, and laying them down was a significant gesture of respect and honor. The palm branches symbolized victory and triumph. By waving them, the crowd expressed their recognition of Jesus’ role and their willingness to serve and worship him. This act signifies their readiness to support Jesus and align with his mission. Their shouts of “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” reflect their hope for deliverance. The term “Hosanna” means “save now,” showing the crowd’s desire for salvation and a better future.
The triumphal entry of Jesus challenges our modern views of leadership. In today’s world, leadership is often associated with charisma, authority, and assertiveness. Many leadership theories emphasize strategic decision-making, influence tactics, and organizational effectiveness. However, the example of Jesus riding on a donkey offers a profound contrast. His leadership was characterized by humility, service, and a focus on relational rather than transactional outcomes. Jesus did not rely on instinctual leadership prowess or follow contemporary leadership science. Instead, he embodied God’s plan for leadership—a plan centered on sacrificial love and genuine care for others.
Jesus could have had the best of everything. He could have eaten the best food, stayed in the finest hotels, and had unlimited servants. Instead, he lived amongst the outcasts of his world. He could have had a servant who washed his feet, but he washed the feet of his disciples.
Jesus’ approach to leadership challenges us to reconsider what it means to lead effectively. Rather than seeking short-term activity or immediate compliance, Jesus aimed for lasting impact and transformation of hearts. His ministry was about winning over hearts through love and compassion, not forcing obedience through fear or authority. This model of leadership encourages us to prioritize relationships and the well-being of others above personal gain or status. It invites us to bow down to God’s plan for leadership, trusting in his wisdom and guidance rather than relying solely on human strategies.
In our roles as leaders, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we can learn from Jesus’ example. Christlike leadership involves genuine humility, a willingness to serve, and a commitment to fostering peace and unity. It requires us to listen attentively, understand deeply, and act compassionately. What does Christlike leadership look like in your context? How can you emulate Jesus’ humility and service in your daily interactions?
As we reflect on Jesus’ triumphal entry, we are invited to embrace his model of leadership. This includes cultivating a leadership style that prioritizes the well-being of others, seeks reconciliation over division, and values relationships over authority. Let us strive to lead in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. May our lives, like Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, proclaim the coming of God’s kingdom—a kingdom of peace, justice, and abundant life for all.
