Illuminate

This is the Palm Sunday sermon preached by Pastor Chance KF Mwangomba on April 13, 2025.

Introduction

Good morning, congregation. Today, we gather to celebrate Palm Sunday, a day filled with both triumph and anticipation as Jesus entered Jerusalem as the King of Peace. This marks the beginning of Holy Week, a sacred time for reflection, renewal, and revelation. Let us explore Luke 19:28–40 and uncover how Jesus, the Light of the World, illuminates our path.

I. The Journey and the Blind

The journey we examine today isn’t only about physical movement—it’s about spiritual transformation. In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem is framed between two stories of blind men receiving their sight (Mark 8:22–26 and 10:46–52). This structure highlights the spiritual blindness of the people—even His disciples—and their need for light. Just like the blind received sight, we must seek the light that Christ brings.

II. The Obedience to Serve

In Luke 19:29–31, Jesus sends two of His disciples to untie a colt, giving them a simple assurance: “The Lord needs it.” They obey without hesitation. In Greek, Jesus says: “kai lusantes auton agagete”—“Untie it and lead it.” This is more than a logistical task. It’s a command to liberate those who are bound, to lead the forgotten, and to act in trust even when the reason isn’t fully clear.

III. The Humility of the King

Verses 32–35 describe Jesus riding a colt into Jerusalem. This isn’t a display of might but a fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9: “See, your king comes to you… lowly and riding on a donkey.” His choice reflects peace and humility. The people lay down their cloaks—an act of surrender in a time of longing. In the midst of Roman oppression, their gesture says: “This is our true King.”

IV. The Meaning of the Palms

In verses 36–38, palm branches and cloaks are laid down. These symbols carry deep political and historical meaning. Even the coins of that time featured palm branches—a symbol of freedom—alongside Roman domination. In Jesus’ hands, the palm branch is transformed. It no longer signals war or rebellion, but peace, love, and liberation.

V. The Stones Will Cry Out

When the Pharisees ask Jesus to silence His disciples, He replies, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” The need for salvation cannot be silenced. Imagine someone in a burning house crying out for rescue—how could we ask them to be quiet? So too, the crowd’s “Hosanna!” is a cry the world must hear.

VI. Conclusion

When Jesus entered Jerusalem, He brought with Him a light so powerful that even the stones would cry out if His disciples were silent. That light exposes the darkness of injustice and calls us to act. Are we walking in His light? Are we helping untie those who are bound?

As we begin Holy Week, let us lay down our cloaks of pride, anger, and despair. Let us take up Christ’s light—through love, humility, and service. Remember: Jesus does not come with conquest but with compassion. Not with dominance, but with peace.

Wave your palms today with humility and hope. Let the light of Christ guide your path.

Finally, speak to the one near you and say:

“Go to the nearest helpless. Untie them. And lead them.”

Amen.