Mark 11:9, 10  Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11:9-10‬ ‭NIV‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/111/mrk.11.9-10.NIV

Matthew 21:10, 11  When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in an uproar, saying, “Who is this?” 11 The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.” 

Christian Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2020), Mt 21:10–11.

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Jesus entered Jerusalem along with the pilgrim crowds en route to celebrate Passover. He was hailed as King. These people had seen and heard and received reports about what Jesus had done. How could they not celebrate a man with healing in his hands, a man who raised the dead to life, a man who spoke like no other?

How was he received when he arrived at the temple? With indifference (verse 11) and hostility (verses 27-33). This devolved rather quickly into outright opposition and condemnation to death (14:63-64). 

The stewards of the temple, the place where people were to draw near to God, kept the keys from the rightful owner of the house. Be careful who you allow to manage your affairs. Be careful not to confuse stewardship with ownership. 

So once upon a time, the King entered his Kingdom. He arrived at his throne room without welcome. No anticipation of his arrival was evident. Everything worked just fine without him. Those in charge were determined to keep it that way. This should remind us today of Revelation 3:20:

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

It is a simple question, really. It is also a question of ultimate significance. On which side of your door does Jesus stand? Do you welcome him as your King? Or do you ignore his approach?

This is a day to celebrate Jesus. Bring whatever you have to exalt him for who he is. Recall all he has done for you and give him thanks. May he forever find a joyful welcome at home in your heart.

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I will always welcome Jesus as my savior and my king.

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Our Father, in answer to the musical question, “Who will call him King of Kings?” I will. I do. Amen.