Palm Sunday
The word "greatness" often implies exceptional skill, achievement or influence. Yet, its meaning varies depending on the values behind it
- (Greatness Demonstrated through Humility)
- The word "greatness" often implies exceptional
skill, achievement or influence. Yet, its meaning varies depending on the
values behind it. When driven by pride, control or self glorification,
greatness becomes self-centred and measured by worldly standards: titles, power
and outward success. In contrast, true greatness from God’s perspective is
marked by humility, self-sacrifice and servant leadership. It is not about
prominence but about noble character, moral integrity and a heart to serve
others. This is the kind of greatness Jesus modelled. There are many rich
spiritual lessons to be drawn from Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
While this momentous event is thoroughly recorded in the Bible, my aim here is
not to recount the details of the narrative itself. Instead, my heartfelt and
prayerful intention here is to encourage every believer to pause and reflect
deeply on one profound spiritual truth that emerges from this scene: ‘the
demonstration of true greatness through humility.’ This theme is woven
throughout the entire account of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem which was revealed
not only in His actions, but also in the manner, symbolism and spirit with
which He approached this pivotal moment in His earthly ministry. Palm Sunday
reminds a powerful example of how true greatness is not marked by power or
prestige but humility and service. Despite being hailed as a king, our Lord
Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem on a donkey which was a symbol of humility. When
Jesus entered Jerusalem, the people had significant expectations largely shaped
by their political and religious circumstances. The Jewish in particular were
under the Roman occupation facing oppression and heavy taxation. In such a
condition, they longed for a Messiah, a saviour who would liberate them from
Roman rule and restore the kingdom of Israel. Many believed that Messiah would
be a powerful, warrior-like king who would overthrow their enemies through
military might. Many might have imagined that Jesus would ride on a war horse,
symbolising conquest and domination, but Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem defied
people’s expectations. Instead of riding a war horse, Jesus rode a donkey,
symbolising peace, humility, and servanthood (Zechariah 9:9). His humility was
further demonstrated through His obedience to God, even to the point of dying
on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). True greatness is not found in power, status
or recognition, but in serving others, living with purpose and making a lasting
impact. In God’s kingdom, greatness is defined by love, sacrifice, and humility
but not by position or prestige. Humility has no room for self-exaltation or
pride. It doesn’t seek applause, boast in achievements or elevate self above
others. It refuses to belittle or ignore people based on status, appearance or
background. A humble heart is not arrogant or self-righteous but gentle,
teachable and willing to learn. It is not driven by possessions or titles, but
by a desire to serve. Jesus, the King of Kings, owned nothing yet gave
everything - that is true humility. The Bible clearly affirms this truth: “…
whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
“… he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
(Philippians 2:8) Christians around the world celebrate Palm Sunday, often with
grand church programs to remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. While these
celebrations are meaningful, we must not treat Palm Sunday as a mere annual
tradition or ritual. It should be a moment of deep reflection, an opportunity
to cultivate the humility modelled by Jesus. Jesus showed that true greatness
is not found in self-exaltation but in living a life marked by servanthood,
obedience and love. His triumphal entry redefined greatness not through power
or display, but through meekness and surrender. May we all be reminded that
humility is a key virtue in the Christian life that makes our journey more
meaningful and allows us to be a blessing to others. When we choose to walk in
humility, our actions reflect Christ and our lives become instruments of love,
service and grace. May every believer be encouraged to embrace and embody the
spirit of humility. “Humility costs nothing but yields everything. It is a gift
freely given, and when shared, it multiplies, enriching both heart and life.”
