And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”

Luke 19:35-38 (ESV)

 

Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem fulfilled Zechariah's prophecy that the Messiah would arrive on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9-10). This implies that Jesus came as a humble King of peace, not a war-mongering conqueror. However, He was preparing for the greatest fight ever fought in history. His victory won ensuring peace forever.

Jesus did more than merely offer peace; He became our peace by dying on the cross. We need His peace since we have fallen away from God through sin. His peace provides us reconciliation with God and our pardon of sin. His peace gives us the confidence to begin anew with God and enjoy a relationship in which peace rules and thrives. His peace, which is greater than we can understand, will keep our thoughts and emotions from becoming anxious and fearful about life.

This gospel of peace is not only for us, but for everyone seeking peace with God.

When we find peace with God, we will learn to extend and demonstrate that same peace to others. Jesus pronounces a blessing on those who work for peace (Matthew 5:9). Peacemakers are known as true children of God because they emulate their Father God. While peacekeepers avoid conflicts at all costs, peacemakers establish justice and reconciliation over conflicts.

On this Palm Sunday, it is good to remember Jesus as the giver and personification of peace. As you pray for your personal peace, also offer prayers for world peace, especially for peace in Israel and Gaza, keeping in mind the people who have been severely affected by this historic conflict.