Orthodox Palm Sunday and Christ’s Entry into Jerusalem
Gerald Largent
The Entry into Jerusalem (John 12:1–18)
As our Lord Jesus Christ approaches His voluntary Passion, the Church brings us to the radiant and paradoxical feast of Palm Sunday, commemorating His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as recorded in John 12:1–18. This moment is filled with joy, expectation, and deep spiritual meaning; yet it is also overshadowed by the coming Cross.
Palms, anointing, and the coming Cross
Christ enters Jerusalem not as an earthly conqueror, but as the King of Peace. He does not ride a warhorse, as kings of this world would, but a humble donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah: “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt” (Zechariah 9:9). This image reveals the nature of His kingdom; one not of violence or domination, but of humility, sacrifice, and love.
The people greet Him with palm branches and cries of “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, the King of Israel!” These cries echo Psalm 118, a psalm of deliverance and victory. Yet the crowd’s understanding is incomplete. Many expect a political Messiah who will overthrow Roman rule. They celebrate Him as a king, but do not yet understand the kind of kingship He brings.
Entering Holy Week with Christ
In the same passage, we also encounter Mary of Bethany, who anoints the feet of Christ with costly oil and wipes them with her hair. This act of love and devotion stands in stark contrast to the misunderstanding of the crowd. While others seek power and glory, Mary recognizes, at least in part, the mystery unfolding before her. Christ Himself interprets her act as preparation for His burial. Already, the shadow of the Cross is present.
The Church Fathers teach us that Palm Sunday is not merely a historical event, but a spiritual reality in which we are called to participate. We, too, take up palms (symbols of victory) and go forth to meet Christ. But the question remains: how do we receive Him? Do we welcome Him only in moments of joy and triumph, like the crowds who would soon cry “Crucify Him”? Or do we receive Him with the steadfast love and humility of Mary, offering Him our very lives?
Saint Andrew of Crete exhorts us: “Let us go together to meet Christ on the Mount of Olives… not with olive branches or palms, but with the virtues.” The true palm branches we offer are not external, but spiritual—faith, repentance, humility, and love.
Entering Holy Week
Palm Sunday thus stands at the threshold of Holy Week. It is both a celebration and a warning. The same voices that shout “Hosanna” may, without vigilance, turn to rejection. The same hearts that rejoice may grow cold.
As we enter this sacred week, let us examine ourselves. Let us receive Christ not as a fleeting enthusiasm, but as the Lord of our lives. Let us follow Him: not only into Jerusalem, but to Golgotha, and ultimately to the empty tomb.
For the King who enters in humility is the same Lord who will rise in glory. And those who follow Him in humility will share in His victory.
Originally published in the April 5, 2026 St. Panteleimon Orthodox Christian Outreach devotional.