Your King Comes Humbly from the Mount of Olives in Advent

First Sunday of Advent

First Edition

Gospel Matthew 21:1–9 Your King Comes Humbly

As they approached Jerusalem and were approaching Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples ahead of them, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and there you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Immediately you will find them. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say, ‘The Lord needs them, but will send them back quickly.’”

This happened to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:

“Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Look, your King is coming!’

He is coming to you, gentle,

and riding on a donkey,

and on a colt, the foal of a young bull.”

The disciples went and did as Jesus had commanded them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put their clothes on them, and Jesus sat on the donkey. There was a very large crowd, and they spread their clothes on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and those that followed shouted,

- Hosanna to the Son of David!

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest! (Matthew 21:1–9 First Edition)

Jesus’ Journey from the Mount of Olives

Advent is a time of waiting that prepares us for the coming of Christ. During this time, the Mount of Olives, a high hill near Jerusalem, stands out in a special way when Jesus rides there humbly on a donkey. This event, described in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 21:1–9), reminds us of Christ’s human approach and the message of mercy he offers.

The high Mount of Olives, surrounded by beautiful olive trees, was one of Jesus’ favorite places. The Gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus often withdrew to this spot to teach and pray. When Jesus sends his disciples to fetch a donkey, he unwittingly chooses something that may seem insignificant on the surface. The choice to use a donkey symbolizes humility and how the kingdom of God will come in a different way than the kingdoms of men. Jesus’ riding a donkey refers to the grace and peace that he brings.

Advent

Advent is a time of silence and reflection on our relationship with God. It is an opportunity to lay our hearts’ cares at the feet of Jesus. Advent is not just a countdown to Christmas, but a profound invitation to consider how we can open our hearts to Christ. As Jesus rides down the Mount of Olives, we remind ourselves that we always have the opportunity to return to him. His grace is immense and boundless.

New Testament Description

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus sends the twelve disciples to fetch a donkey. This event opens the door to the message of Advent. God’s plan is not new, but has existed from the beginning. His grace is directed to all people. Jesus’ journey is filled with symbolism; in difficult times, this message reminds us of God’s understanding of our hearts. God knows what we need and will carry us through difficulties.

Symbolism of the Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives represents the Spirit and grace. Martin Luther said that Jesus’ humble approach is an important message for the whole world. It is not a high and mighty place, but a peaceful park where olive trees grow. This reminds us that Jesus does not come to judge, but to offer peace and love. The message of Advent is timely: Christ comes in humility, not in pride.

The Donkey as a Symbol

Jesus rides a donkey this Advent, which is a powerful symbol. A donkey is not a beast, but it is a symbol of the peace and humility that we expect from a Savior. Jesus’ choice to ride a donkey is a revelation: he comes as a king, but as a king of peace, bearing the sins of humanity. The meaning of this choice is profound; God uses weaker and humble instruments.

A Message of Grace

The message of Christ on Advent Sunday is full of grace. Jesus arrives on a donkey in humility, bringing with him an important message; he is not a fearful judge, but a merciful savior. Mark reinforces this message when Jesus arrives peacefully in the midst of the people, so close that the people can pat the donkey. This approachability makes him special.

The Grace of Christ

Christ’s coming from the Mount of Olives is a reminder of his gracious nature. He comes to bring hope and peace to our hearts, not to condemn. This is a special message; Jesus understands human weaknesses and the heavy weight of the burdens we carry. During Advent, we can reflect deeply on our own sins and burdens. Jesus, who would take the heaviest of sins upon himself, invites us to follow him with humility and hope.

The Approach of Christmas

As Advent progresses, we can prepare for the birth of Christ. This can mean different things to many, but for each person it is an opportunity to create peace in their hearts. The landscape of the Mount of Olives and Jesus’ journey on the donkey provide a vivid picture of Advent and the anticipation of Christmas. This is not just a tradition, but a time to delve into the heart.

Summary

Your King comes in humility, and Advent is a time to share this message. Our lives are full of questions and worries, but Jesus is a merciful light. From the Mount of Olives, from which he rides, we receive strength to live and prepare for his coming. This season of Advent is important to cherish, because it reminds us of Jesus’ coming to earth. We can experience his presence daily as the Great Merciful One, who came on a donkey, works in our hearts. The journey of Advent takes us from the Mount of Olives to Christmas, and every step brings us closer to the grace of Christ. We prepare and wait, because our King is coming.