Blaine Rogers @ First Free Will Baptist Church, Russellville, AR Mark 11:1-11 Day 4 We really like this account because men laying down clothes and waving palm branches just seems right, doesn’t it? Most of the time Jesus was despised and rejected. Most people who followed after or met Jesus did so because of what they could get from Him. Most followers rejected a long-term commitment. Today, Jesus received what He deserved; honor and attention. The people lined the streets and used their clothes as a saddle for Jesus, using their clothes as a red carpet for the colt He rode on. Considering the expense and value of clothing in that day, this was generous praise. (Guzick) If Jesus were literally (in the flesh) among us, would He receive a critical evaluation, or would He receive generous praise? It’s even more important to understand that Jesus is here among us. What was the praise of men? “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’” During His life on Earth, Jesus did everything He could to dissuade people from announcing Him as Messiah. But after this event, Jesus goes out of His way to invite public praise and adoration. What made the difference? In fact, when the religious leaders of His day objected to Him receiving this praise, He told them “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.” (Luke 19:40) It was time to praise Jesus. It still is!