When Rome ruled much of the known world, palm branches were a symbol of victory and goodness. This was the context and meaning of the triumphal entry described in John 12:12-19. The people were proclaiming Jesus as victor and king.
I'm one of those people who has always asked, "Why?" If I read the chapter before, it says Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after Lazarus was dead four days. No wonder it caused a stir and people were believing in Jesus! Can you imagine? The news spread like wildfire, and without any technology, a crowd quickly gathered when they found out Jesus was coming into Jerusalem. They brought their symbol of victory and goodness, palm branches, and cried out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" But the leaders felt threatened and were plotting Jesus as well as Lazarus.
Personally, this is one of my least favorite stories in the Bible. It is the fickle crowd that troubles me. Because I know the rest of the story, I can imagine the cheering crowd turning to a jeering crowd just a few days later crying, "Crucify him!" I see myself in the crowd and find it revolting. When I read it this time, I was moved to tears. I wonder how Jesus felt as he was hailed as King knowing it was the beginning of his journey to the cross. Regardless of how he felt, Jesus moved forward, knowing his purpose and calling. Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) says,
"For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame,
and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Jesus' journey of victory, shows us that the path to victory may look very different than we imagine or hope. It reminds me to keep my eyes on Jesus, looking at the big picture, not just at what is going on at the moment, while still being present in the moment. Not easy.
1 Corinthians (NLT) says,
"He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ."
He did it for us. He died for me. He lives in me. He is with me on my own journey. This is not the end. We have hope of eternal life that starts here and now! I am so grateful.
To read the process I use on pages like this, here is a link to a post where I list the process for a similar page and the supplies used: http://visualblessings.blogspot.com/2016/01/bible-journaling-my-animal-of-year.html
ART SUPPLIES USED in this post are shown with Amazon links below:
NOTE:
Sandwich deli wrap paper is not available everywhere. I bought mine, First Street brand at Cash & Carry here in the U.S. The paper is also called Dry Wax paper, but is different than the regular wax paper I buy at the grocery store. I also have used Kabnet wax brand that is available on Amazon or at Costco. It is folded and more waxy on one side so I prefer the First Street brand, although it works if you use the pen on the less waxy side. I have noticed other brands on Amazon, Marcal and Logan, but I haven't tried them. If you have, it would be great for you to let us know in the comments. There may be substitutions where you live. Look for translucent paper that can withstand wet media.
You will notice I have listed both Golden brand and Deco Art Media for a few colors. That is because I have found them very similar and if there is a price difference, it may help you with a purchase decision. There are links to both a pen set and a single XS Pitt pen. The XS Pit pen has the finest size line of that brand, so I use that the most.