There were five distinctive groups of people present during Jesus’ Triumphal Entry on the first Palm Sunday.
THE COMMITTED: A committed follower of Christ is one who follows Jesus leadership without questioning. A committed follower recognizes Jesus as Lord. In their lives we see an obedience to go where led. They understand Jesus mission of bringing a lost and dying world to new life in Him. Committed followers give willingly of themselves for the cause of Christ. We see in their lives an orientation towards the needs of others. A committed follower acts as an extension of Jesus Christ.
THE CONFUSED: The confused don’t recognize Jesus for who He truly is. They may see Jesus as a good man, a prophet or a wise man. They may confess that Jesus is Lord, but yet believe that their works and not God’s grace will save them. The confused often have the wrong intentions. Many of those present that day, thought that Jesus was coming to overthrow the Roman government and take political control of the country. Many people are the same today; they may see God as their piggy bank or their life raft, but not as their reason for living and not as their Savior and Lord.
THE PRETENDERS: The pretenders are often present, but have no real commitment to Jesus. They want to be seen, but will not surrender control of their lives. Some people come to church to get someone off their back or just to ease their conscience, but ultimately they are going through the motions. These people know very little about Jesus Christ or His plan for their lives. Pretenders are easily influenced by the actions of others. They will take the path of least resistance and will let the approval of others dictate their level of commitment.
THE CURIOUS: The curious that day, thought of Jesus along much the same lines as the circus or a magic show. Their minds were permeated with a wonder about what amazing thing Jesus would do next. The curious are neither committed or opposed. They may have heard some interesting things about Jesus, and just want to find out for themselves. They are seeking amazing experiences both emotional and paranormal. They are not necessarily looking for truth, just what feels right for the moment.
THE OPPOSITION: The opposition seeks to promote its own interests. Those in opposition to Jesus are consumed with seeking the attention of people. They oppose a commitment to Christ, because commitment requires change, requires the focus to be on Jesus and not ourselves. They actively seek to destroy those who would promote Jesus Christ in their lives.
The question now becomes very simple: Which One Are You?
No matter which face is yours, Jesus loves you. He gave His life for you and He rose again that you might have eternal life. As Jesus went through the crowd He saw each and every face, He knew each and every story. Jesus sees your face today and He knows your story… will you allow Him to be the Lord and Savior of your life? (CARL WILLIS)