Day 1: Palm Branch

Read

Matthew 2:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19

Set the Scene

The streets of Jerusalem buzzed with excitement as Jesus approached on a humble donkey. The people eagerly anticipated His arrival–would he be the rescuer they had been waiting for? Imagine the people hurrying to cut down palm branches from the trees to prepare for the royal treatment for Jesus that only kings should receive. Crowds gathered, waving palm branches–some up to ten feet in length– and laying their cloaks on the road, shouting, "Hosanna!" Though this was a moment of celebration, many did not grasp the true significance of Jesus’ arrival. Jesus was not a political king coming to overthrow Rome but the Savior, ushering in a Kingdom far greater than they imagined.

Reflection Questions

1. The people shouted, “Hosanna!” (meaning “Save us now”). In what ways do you cry out to Jesus for help in your life?

2. How does Jesus’ humble entry challenge the way you view leadership and power?

3. The crowd’s praise turned to rejection within days. How can you remain steadfast in your faith, even when things don’t go as expected? 

4. Palm branches symbolize both celebration and surrender. What areas of your life do you need to lay down before Jesus in trust and worship?

For Preschoolers: “Wave Your Palms!” (Craft & Praise)

📖 Read a few verses from one of the passages (Matthew 21:8-9 is a great option). Explain that people waved palm branches and shouted, "Hosanna!" to celebrate Jesus as King.

🖍 Activity:

• Option 1: Draw & Wave – Have them draw a big green palm branch and cut it out (or have a parent cut it for them). Then, they can wave it and shout "Hosanna! Jesus is King!"

• Option 2: Find & Wave – Go outside and find a big leaf, branch, or even a scarf, and wave it while saying "Hosanna!"

🎶 Extra Fun: Play worship music and march around waving their “palm branches,” celebrating Jesus!

For Elementary Kids: “Create a Path for Jesus”

📖 Read one of the passages together and talk about how people laid palm branches and coats on the road for Jesus, showing honor.

👣 Activity:

• Go outside and find leaves, jackets, or paper and lay them on the ground like the people did for Jesus.

• Imagine Jesus walking over their “path” and talk about what it means to honor Him today.

• Ask: How can we show Jesus He is King in our lives?

✨ Reflection Question for Families:

Why do you think people were excited about Jesus that day? How can we celebrate Him like that in our everyday lives?