Holy Week Devotion – Palm Sunday

Scripture:

“And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, ‘Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.’”

— Luke 19:41–42 (ESV)

Reflection:

Palm Sunday is a day of celebration, yet it carries the weight of Christ’s sorrow. As He approached Jerusalem—acclaimed by crowds waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna!”—Jesus wept. Why? Because they misunderstood His coming. They longed for political rescue, but missed the path of true peace—reconciliation with God through the cross. His lament wasn’t over their rejection alone, but over hearts too blind to recognize their Savior.

At midday, let your heart pause. Reflect not just on the praise that filled the streets of Jerusalem, but on the Savior who weeps for lost souls. The peace He offers comes not through force but through faith, not through conquest but through the cross.

Prayer:

Lord, You are the Prince of Peace. Forgive me when I, like the crowds, expect You to fulfill my hopes on my terms. Open my eyes to what truly brings peace—Your presence, Your promises, and Your path. Amen.

Greek Word:

εἰρήνη (eirēnē) — peace, harmony, wholeness

Refers to spiritual well-being and reconciliation with God, a peace that Christ alone secures.

Hebrew Word:

שָׁלוֹם (shalom) — peace, completeness, restoration

Used throughout Scripture to describe the fullness of peace that includes justice, right relationship with God, and soul-deep rest.