The Donkey

Year 4-Day 82: Today,  I am grateful for the humble donkey.

Holy Week continues. On Sunday, the children sang "We have a King who rides a donkey."  It is a children's praise song. We sing it often on Palm Sunday for obvious reasons. 

Why a donkey?  Why not something more royal and king-like?  

Apparently, in the ancient Middle Eastern world, leader arrived on horses when they were headed into war, but to arrive on a donkey meant they came in peace.  Solomon riding a donkey on the day he was recognized as the new king of Israel (1 Kings 1:33). Other instances of kings and the kings house riding donkeys are found in Judges 5, 10, & 12  and 2 Samuel 16. 

The donkey is a humble animal with a gait that cannot compare to the elegance and grace of a horse. Still, the meaning is rich. Church leaders in Jesus times recognized the significance.  This man...of the house of David (and Solomon)...arrived on a donkey. I think it explains some of their fury and that they did have understanding of this man's significance. 

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
    Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your king is coming to you;
    righteous and having salvation is he,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
    on a colt, the foal of a donkey. - Zechariah 9:9

The people in that day had to choose.  Was Jesus the long promised Messiah? Each one would have to make their choice.  The political and religious leaders felt the fuel of the fury, the fear and the very real presence of this man who was fulfilling age old prophecies at every step. God's plan was in motion and they had a front row seat. 

I often wonder...who would I have seen?  The Messiah or a lunatic?  Where would I have aligned my beliefs and set my eyes?  What would my heart accepted as truth?  

I am grateful I was born in the days of central air and indoor plumbing...but this week takes me to a place of wondering what the sight, smells and sounds were of that Holy Week so many years ago. 

If you a looking for a great fictional read, "The Christ Commission" by Og Mandino does just that. It takes you back. A modern day reporter wants to solve the murder mystery of Jesus and prove he never rose from the dead. It is not Mandino's most popular work, but it was the one most dear to his heart. 

He came in peace. He came with a warriors strength and determination. He came on a mission. Even as he hung between two thieves...he offered life over dwelling in his own suffering. 

Yes, we have a King who rides a donkey!  No royal steed as he entered the city to over salvation to all who would call on his name in sincere faith. 

"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna!" 

Today,  I am grateful for the humble donkey and his place in the greatest love story ever.