Palm Sunday begins Holy Week—a time when we remember and celebrate all Jesus did to pay for our sins and make a relationship with Him possible. The week begins with what the Gospels call The Triumphal Entry.
Triumphant.
The word carries the idea of victory, celebration, and winning, right? The people in Jerusalem were filled with hope, anticipating a King who would free them from Roman oppression. This looked like it was going to be the moment. Sure, the King was riding a donkey instead of a war horse. And yes, there were powerful people who stood in opposition to Him. But still—it felt triumphant.
And yet, that same week led to Jesus’ arrest. Which doesn’t look very triumphant at all. By all appearances, the joy of Palm Sunday gave way to the failure of Good Friday. But if you're a follower of Jesus, you know the “failure” of Good Friday was actually the road to Easter Sunday—the ultimate victory.
It’s as if nothing in Holy Week was what it seemed on the surface.
The Triumphal Entry didn't lead to a coronation in the traditional sense.
The arrest didn't signal the end of Jesus or His movement.
Through it all, God was at work—carrying out His plan of redemption, even in the moments that seemed darkest.
Can you relate?
Maybe life feels good right now. Or maybe you’re facing what feels like a colossal disappointment or a painful, uncertain season. Wherever you find yourself, I pray Holy Week reminds you that even when you can’t see it, God is working. He hasn’t forgotten you. He hasn’t abandoned you. He is present in your highest moments and faithfully at work in your lowest.
And no matter what you’re facing, His plans for your life are not derailed by your circumstances.
Holy Week is a meaningful reminder of the love that carried Jesus to the cross, and the hope awaiting us on the other side.
