Lenten Devotion: Don’t Be Fooled By Appearances (John 12:12-19)
Day 32 – 10 Apr 2025
So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” John 12:13
The crowd cheered and celebrated Jesus’ triumphant entry because they heard of the many miracles Jesus performed, even raising Lazarus from the dead. With such superpowers, surely Jesus will defeat the Roman rulers. Even the Pharisees, who were experts in dealing with people, knew that they could not beat Jesus’ popularity because the crowd will surely follow the greater fame and power.
I wondered what were on the minds of the enthusiastic crowd when they witnessed Jesus, their Messiah, entering Jerusalem slowly riding on a donkey? Surely it is more impressive to parade into Jerusalem on a horse-driven chariot, heralding the dawn of a new era!
How many of us, like the crowd, have missed the point by focusing on outward appearances? We place more importance to persons we think have more influence over us. We are disturbed and worried when political figures create chaos and upheavals, threatening to change our way of life.
Some forty years ago, a Secondary One boy was first introduced to the gospel message during Religious Emphasis Week. He learnt that Jesus Christ died for his sins and the sins of many and yet the world rejected him. He realized that the message of salvation is true, whether he chose to believe it or not.
However, if he had rejected Jesus like the religious leaders did, he would likewise be condemned. Over time, God revealed more of himself to that boy and he developed a close relationship with Jesus Christ.
That boy was me.
Today, I thank God for all that he has done in my life. Not only that, after much persevering prayer, the Holy Spirit also touched my parents’ hearts. They subsequently came to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
Jesus Christ is our Lord and King, even if he is riding on a colt! Let us focus on him and his gift of salvation for us. Let us not be distracted by the noises that surround us but continue to trust in his faithfulness and walk in obedience to his commands.
Victor Ong🙏✝️