Read:

Zechariah 9:9-10

Dig Deeper:

In the unsuspecting town of Bethlehem, a baby was born and was laid in a feeding trough meant for barn animals like cows and donkeys. And a little over 30 years later, that baby would then be a man, making a triumphant entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. Talk about a man acquainted humility.

Just like today, the donkey was considered a lowly animal. It wasn't flashy or cool. Let's face it, donkeys (or at least donkey owners) wish they were horses with their speed, agility, and strength. So, for a king to be making a ceremonial procession on a donkey almost feels like an oxymoron.

And yet, that was the whole point. As God does time and again, He was making a very important statement. This fated king who would rescue and redeem the world, he wouldn't be a flashy, pompous king demanding respect and conquering through military victory. He wouldn't strong arm his way to the top. In fact, quite the opposite, this lowly donkey showcased the fact that He would be a humble king, a prince of peace.

And not only that, but the donkey was typically owned by common people. By riding on the steed of the people, this king was declaring that He understood the everyman, that He understood you and me. He was here for you and me.

God is always precise, and it's funny how no detail is waisted in the story He is writing. From a donkey in Bethlehem to a donkey in the streets of Jerusalem, God always had a plan. Just like in our scripture reading in Zechariah, He sent the Prince of Peace, here for you and for me.

Declaration: Say this next statement out loud as a declaration of what you have learned today.

Jesus is my Prince of Peace. He knows me and understands me.

Pray:

God, You never miss a single detail. Thank You for sending Jesus as my Prince of Peace. I pray that as Christmas draws near, that your peace would fill my heart. Thank you that You understand me and that You empathize with the things I am going through. I am trusting You to provide the things that I need. Amen.