Monday: Understanding
Pray: Begin by making the sign of the cross and calling upon God's name.
From God to us, from death to life, from me to you …
in the name of the Father, and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O God, as we learn about the very first Palm Sunday, may we understand more about who Jesus was—the true King of Kings! Be with us now as we read our story, and give us lasting faith. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Listen: Pay close attention as these verses from the Bible are read aloud.
Luke 19:28-38
When Jesus had finished saying all this, he went on toward Jerusalem. As he was getting near Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples on ahead. He told them, “Go into the next village, where you will find a young donkey that has never been ridden. Untie the donkey and bring it here. If anyone asks why you are doing that, just say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”
They went off and found everything just as Jesus had said. While they were untying the donkey, its owners asked, “Why are you doing that?” They answered, “The Lord needs it.” Then they led the donkey to Jesus. They put some of their clothes on its back and helped Jesus get on.
And as he rode along, the people spread clothes on the road in front of him. When Jesus was starting down the Mount of Olives, his large crowd of disciples was happy and praised God because of all the miracles they had seen. They shouted, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory to God.” (CEV)
Engage: Talk about the Bible by having parents respond to children’s questions.
Child: Which is bigger, a donkey or a horse? Have you ever ridden on an animal’s back? If so, what was it like? Do you guess why the disciples put clothes on the donkey for Jesus to sit on?
Child: The disciples did what Jesus asked, even though they didn’t know what would happen. Do you think this would have been hard for them? Why or why not?
Affirm: Pray for God to put his Word into action in your daily life.
Heavenly Father, like the disciples, we want to listen to you and follow your commands. This can be hard for us, especially when we face uncertainties or don’t understand your plan. Please give us the faith and courage we need. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Have each person in the family bless one another with these words:
May you daily serve the Lord! Amen.