Welcoming the King

“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” – Matthew 21:9

Palm Sunday

I like plans. (And planners!) I like answers. I like certainty. I like insurance. And military life rarely gives any of those, by nature.

Right now, my husband is deployed. And we have no idea what his command is going into right now. I wish I had the mental energy to write more about this odd, scary time in my life – but it’s too draining. (If you’re reading this later, it’s spring 2026 and the world is falling apart…well, it seems so.)

I hate not knowing what he’s doing or how safe he is. The feeling of the unknown is all too familiar, yet pervasively sickening.

I try to focus on Now. And Now, it is Palm Sunday.

When I picture Jesus riding into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday—keeping in mind he knew exactly what was coming—it honestly floors me. He didn’t walk into uncertainty like I do. He walked straight toward suffering. And still, He walked.

The people shouted “Hosanna!” as He passed by. They threw palm branches and cloaks and praise at His feet. But not long after, many of them shouted “Crucify Him!” instead.

When we stop and really think about the stories in the Bible, things get really deep. Honestly, I feel like that is the whole point of holy scripture. Though the stories may be old, they are rich with meaning.

Palm Sunday asks us a hard question: Do I only welcome Jesus when things feel good? Or will I still honor Him when His path looks nothing like what I hoped?

This week begins with celebration—but we know it’s heading toward the cross. Jesus knew that too. And still, He came.

Prayer Prompt:

Jesus, help me welcome You not just in celebration, but in surrender. I don’t want to follow You only when it’s easy or exciting. Teach me to trust You when the path looks dark and confusing. You are the King—even when I don’t understand what You’re doing.

Reflection:

Where in my life am I struggling to trust Jesus right now—especially because I don’t know what’s coming?