1. Jesus and his followers were coming closer to Jerusalem. But first they stopped at Bethphage at the hill called the Mount of Olives. From there Jesus sent two of his followers into town.
2. He said to them, “Go to the town you can see there. When you enter it, you will find a donkey with her colt. Untie them both, and bring them to me.
3. If anyone asks you why you are taking the donkeys, tell them, ‘The Master needs them. He will send them back soon.’”
4. This showed the full meaning of what the prophet said:
5. “Tell the people of Zion, ‘Now your king is coming to you. He is humble and riding on a donkey. He is riding on a young donkey, born from a work animal.’” Zechariah 9:9
6. The followers went and did what Jesus told them to do.
7. They brought the mother donkey and the young donkey to him. They covered the donkeys with their coats, and Jesus sat on them.
8. On the way to Jerusalem, many people spread their coats on the road for Jesus. Others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
9. Some of the people were walking ahead of Jesus. Others were walking behind him. They all shouted, “Praise to the Son of David! ‘Welcome! God bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Psalm 118:25-26 Praise to God in heaven!”