Once, long ago, there was a special day coming in the city of Jerusalem. People were waiting and hoping for something wonderful. They had heard about Jesus, a kind and loving man who did amazing things. Some people even said He was a King sent by God!
On this day, Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. He did not come on a big, fancy horse like a king might. Instead, He rode on a young donkey. The donkey’s feet made soft sounds on the dusty road. The sun shone bright, and the air felt warm and happy.
As Jesus came closer, many people got very excited! They took palm branches—long green leaves that looked like fans—and waved them high in the air. The palm branches danced in the breeze like happy butterflies. The people shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!”
The streets were filled with joy. Some people even took off their coats and spread them on the road for Jesus to walk on. It was like making a special red carpet for a very important guest. Everyone wanted to show love to Jesus, their King.
Children laughed and ran alongside Jesus. They felt safe and happy. Some people asked, “Who is this King? Why is He so special?” Others whispered, “He is the one God promised to send.” The city was alive with hope and love.
Jesus looked at the people with kind eyes. He knew that He came to help everyone, to teach them how to love God and each other. But Jesus also knew that not everyone would understand His plan yet. Still, He was patient and gentle.
The people’s voices grew louder, singing songs to welcome Jesus. It was like a big, happy party on the dusty streets. The palm leaves rustled like the soft music of a gentle wind. Everyone felt that something very good was happening.
This day is called Palm Sunday. It reminds us that Jesus is our King who comes with love and peace. He shows us how to be kind and brave. When we think about this day, we can remember to welcome Jesus into our hearts, just like the people welcomed Him to Jerusalem.
Questions to think about
- Why did people wave palm branches for Jesus?
- How do you think the children felt when Jesus came?
- What did the people shout when Jesus arrived?
- Why did Jesus ride on a donkey and not a big horse?
- How can we welcome Jesus into our lives today?
Message of the story
Jesus is the loving King who comes to bring peace and joy to everyone who welcomes Him with a happy heart.
Bible passage
Matthew 21:1-11
Matthew 21:1-11 (ICB)
When Jesus and his followers came near Jerusalem, at the town called Bethphage, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples.
He said to them, “Go to the village ahead of you. As soon as you enter it, you will find a young donkey tied there. No one has ever ridden it. Untie it and bring it here.
If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”
The disciples went and did as Jesus told them. They brought the donkey to Jesus. They put their coats on the donkey, and Jesus sat on it.
A large crowd spread their coats on the road. Others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
The crowds walking ahead of Jesus and those following behind shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”
The crowds answered, *“This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in
