“The Passion Begins” – 4/13/25 (Palm Sunday) Service
April 13, 2025
Stephen Streett
The Passion Begins (Palm Sunday)
Mark 11:1-11
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, an event recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19). As Jesus entered the city, crowds gathered, laying palm branches and their cloaks on the road, shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David!" and "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" This event fulfilled the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9, which spoke of a king coming to Jerusalem, gentle and riding on a donkey.
Palm Sunday is significant because it sets the stage for the events of Holy Week, leading to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. It highlights the contrast between the crowd's initial enthusiasm and their later cries for Jesus' crucifixion. Sunday’s sermon emphasizes Jesus' love and mercy, even in the face of betrayal and suffering, which began to unfold during this week. Palm Sunday reminds Christians of Jesus' humility and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, ultimately leading to the resurrection celebrated on Easter.
Grace and Peace,
Stephen