The Formal Presentation of the King (Matthew 20:29–21:17)

It is not uncommon to look forward to something for a long time only to be a tad underwhelmed, unfulfilled, or disappointed at its eventual realization. Whether a particular milestone or accomplishment, a unique experience or possession, the goal has been anticipated, daydreamed about, planned for, and worked toward. And yet, when the longing gives way to reality—the milestone reached, the accomplishment grasped, the experience felt, or the possession owned—it’s not all that had been expected. It is wonderful but, at the same time, it seems that something’s missing. Something about the experience does not quite match what was envisioned. In a way, this was what faced national Israel when their Messiah finally marched into Jerusalem, his would-be capital city, and was presented to them as their long-awaited King. It was exciting and cathartic, celebratory and worshipful. And yet, at the time, something was missing. Something didn’t quite match that which they had come to anticipate and expect.