K E YQ U O T E S
• “[During Holy Week] we make that journey from the Mount of Olives to the temple to the Upper Room to Golgotha, and in seven days, to the empty tomb. And each day, I hope that we will ask ourselves as we ponder this journey, as we live in the days of Holy Week: How is it with my soul?
S C R I P T U R E
• Luke 19:28-40 (click on scripture to read online)
P O I N T ST OR E V I S I T
Palm Sunday inaugurates Holy Week with Jesus's transformative entry into Jerusalem, marking a profound departure from traditional royal processions. Instead of military might and grandeur, Jesus chose a humble donkey, surrounded by devoted followers. The crowds' spontaneous worship, laying down cloaks and palm branches while shouting Hosanna, demonstrated their recognition of a different kind of king. The symbolism of the donkey carries deep meaning, representing humility, capability, and faithful service. This choice reflects Jesus' call for his followers to embrace similar qualities - becoming humble servants who protect the vulnerable and use their gifts for others.
P R A Y E R
Most holy and gracious God, speak, for your servant is listening. Speak so clearly that I would hear who you would have me be and what you would have me do. In your Son’s holy name I pray. Amen.
• Why do you think Jesus chose to enter Jerusalem on a donkey rather than a horse or another more majestic animal?
• The sermon mentions that God has only wanted one thing since creation - our hearts. How do you see this desire reflected in the Palm Sunday story?
• How do you respond when you hear God calling you to something that makes you uncomfortable or uncertain?
• What specific steps can you take this Holy Week to fully experience and reflect on Jesus' journey to the cross?
• For children and families: If Jesus came to Winston Salem this week what would the celebration for him look like? How can you celebrate how awesome Jesus is today?
LI F EA P P L I C A T I O N
If you haven’t already, mark time on your calendar for Holy Week observance. Find information about Centenary’s Holy Week offerings on our website, including the opportunity to use a labyrinth in the sanctuary for personal prayer.
As Glenn suggested, you might also spend time each day reflecting on Jesus’ journey through Holy Week: Luke 19:28-48, 22:1-24:52.
E N D I N GP R A Y E R
Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of humble kingship that Jesus demonstrated on Palm Sunday. Help us to trust you more deeply, obey you more fully, and proclaim your love more boldly. Guide us through this Holy Week with open hearts and minds, that we might experience the full depth of your love shown through Christ's journey to the cross. In Jesus' name, Amen.
KINDNESSCHALLENGEFORKIDS
Be Grateful-This week as we celebrate all of the amazing ways that Jesus showed God's love for us let's try and take time each day to find three things to say thank you to God for. Bonus challenge: try to make your three things different each day!
