HEAD DONKEY

By Rick Mathes

John 12:15 ” FEAR NOT, DAUGHTER OF ZION; BEHOLD, YOUR KING IS COMING, SEATED ON A DONKEY’S COLT.”

When I read a narrative in the Word, I imagine I am there sinking my toes into Israeli sand. Won’t you join me in this exciting event and look around at all that is happening in this scene. Do you see the paradise into Jerusalem’s East Gate? The crowd is going wild, the soldiers are nervous and the priests are incensed! This is a train-wreck looking to happen.

Notice with me Peter at the head of the parade clearing the way and leading the other Apostles that expect to be seated on the 12 thrones of the New Jerusalem.

The disciples are throwing palm leaves and cloaks on the road before the donkey and shouting their praises into the third heaven. There was no turning back now! The Pharisees and Sadducees were furious beyond reason as they plotted His death after the Passover.

What caught my eye this spectacle was the donkey. Just for the fun of it I wondered what the donkey was thinking. Now hold on, keep reading ok?

Exalted: My first thought was that he must think he’s a really big deal because out of all the donkeys in Jerusalem, God picked him! Isn’t he something, reeking of pride! It just dawned on me that there are members of churches that feel that very same way. You can tell which ones they are because they are holier-than-thou and they talk down their nose at you.

Forced: Could it be that the donkey was put out and angry that he had to work for the Lord on this hot and sweaty day? I’ll just bet he was grumbling about how unappreciated he was. Why was he picked when there were so many that were lazy and never did anything for Jesus at all?

Serving: More likely, the donkey was just being dutiful and serving the Lord the best he could. In fact, he was enjoying the crowd that was blessing Jesus because he loved Jesus too and was happy to help out.

Humble: How about being shocked that of all the donkeys, God picked him out even though he knew how unworthy he was to carry God’s burden on his back. Imagine that! He had the weight of the Lord on his shoulder!

Jesus needed him to fulfill prophecy and advance the Kingdom. On top of all this, his efforts were breathed into the Word of God for all to read and admire forever as we have just done.

How exalted and humble can it be for this donkey? And what kind of donkey are you?