Welcoming Christ as King in Our Lives

As we approach the sacred days of Holy Week, Palm Sunday invites us into one of the most powerful and paradoxical moments of Jesus’ life on earth: His triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The crowds gather, waving palm branches, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David!” and laying their cloaks on the road as Jesus rides in—not on a grand stallion, but on a humble donkey.

It’s a scene full of joy and anticipation, yet we know what’s coming. The same voices shouting “Hosanna” will, in just a few days, cry out, “Crucify Him.” This moment sets the tone for Holy Week: a mix of triumph and suffering, glory and humility, celebration and sacrifice.

But Palm Sunday isn’t just about remembering a historical event. It’s an invitation. It’s a call to welcome Christ not just into a city, but into our hearts—to acknowledge Him not only as a prophet or teacher, but as our King.

What Does It Mean to Welcome Christ as King?

To welcome Christ as King in our lives is to surrender our will to His. It’s to allow Him to reign over our thoughts, actions, desires, and decisions. It’s easy to cheer for Jesus when things feel victorious—when we see answered prayers or experience blessings. But to truly welcome Him as King means making room for Him even in the uncomfortable spaces, even when He challenges us, even when the path He walks invites us to carry our own crosses.

So how can we welcome Jesus more fully during Holy Week?

Clear the Way

Just as the crowds cleared the road for Jesus, we can clear the path in our own lives. What needs to be laid down so that Christ can enter more freely? Maybe it’s pride, control, resentment, or distraction. Spend time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to reveal anything in your heart that might be keeping Jesus at arm’s length.

Reflection Prompt: 

Lord, what do I need to let go of to make room for You?

Let Him Reign in the Ordinary

Jesus didn’t ride into Jerusalem with grandeur. He came humbly, seated on a donkey. Likewise, He wants to reign in the ordinary moments of our lives—our homes, our workplaces, our relationships, and our routines. Welcoming Christ as King means honoring Him in the simple and everyday, not just in church or on holy days.

Try This:

Offer a simple act of service to someone—folding laundry without complaint, cooking a meal, or sending a note of encouragement—and do it as a gift to your King.

Embrace the Journey Ahead

Palm Sunday is just the beginning. To welcome Christ as King is to walk with Him through the rest of Holy Week: the intimacy of the Last Supper, the agony of the Garden, the sorrow of Good Friday, and the silence of Holy Saturday. We cannot skip to Easter without first walking through the cross.

Encouragement:

Carve out time this Holy Week to truly enter into the story. Attend Holy Week services if you can. Read the Passion narrative. Sit in quiet prayer and ask Jesus to help you walk with Him.

Make It Personal

The people of Jerusalem welcomed Jesus as a national hero. But He came for so much more. He came for you. He desires a personal relationship with you—a life where you are not just part of the crowd but a beloved disciple who walks closely with Him.

Prayer:

Jesus, I welcome You into my life not just as a Savior, but as my King. Reign in my heart, in my thoughts, in my words, and in my choices. May this Holy Week draw me deeper into Your love and closer to Your cross.

A King Worth Following

As we wave our own symbolic palms and enter into this sacred week, may we do so with hearts open and ready to receive our King—not just for a moment, but for a lifetime. The crowds may have turned away, but we are invited to stay with Him, to follow Him, and to rise with Him.

Hosanna in the highest.

Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.