March 24

Introduction

Mark 11:1–25: Jesus enters Jerusalem as the Messiah-King, riding on a colt (see Zechariah 9:9). His entry marks the beginning of his final days in Jerusalem, as he knows he will face suffering and death. Many people greet him with shouts of praise. The next day Jesus enters the Temple in Jerusalem and drives out the dishonest money changers and commercial vendors. Using the example of a fig tree, Jesus offers a teaching about faith.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 11:9b

“Praise God! God bless him who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Reflect

The placing of cloaks and branches along the road indicates the way kings were honored in a procession (see 2 Kings 9:13). How did the crowd honor Jesus? How will you honor Jesus today? According to one interpretation, the fruitless fig tree is meant to serve as a comparison to the Temple, which had become a dishonest commercial marketplace. How did the chief priests react to what Jesus did? Jesus refers to the Temple as a “house of prayer.” How would you define your house of worship?

Pray

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You are my King and my Savior. Reign in my heart forever! Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Mark 12:1–27: Jesus continues teaching and responds to questions from the religious leaders.