PALM SUNDAY (Greatness Demonstrated through Humility) | Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, General Secretary, NBCC

The word “greatness” often implies exceptional skill, achievement or influence. Yet, its  meaning varies depending on the values behind it. When driven by pride, control or self glorification, greatness becomes self-centred and measured by worldly standards: titles, power  and outward success. In contrast, true greatness from God’s perspective is marked by humility,  self-sacrifice and servant leadership. It is not about prominence but about noble character,  moral integrity and a heart to serve others. This is the kind of greatness Jesus modelled.

There are many rich spiritual lessons to be drawn from Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.  While this momentous event is thoroughly recorded in the Bible, my aim here is not to recount  the details of the narrative itself. Instead, my heartfelt and prayerful intention here is to  encourage every believer to pause and reflect deeply on one profound spiritual truth that  emerges from this scene: ‘the demonstration of true greatness through humility.’ This theme is  woven throughout the entire account of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem which was revealed not  only in His actions, but also in the manner, symbolism and spirit with which He approached  this pivotal moment in His earthly ministry.

Palm Sunday reminds a powerful example of how true greatness is not marked by power or  prestige but humility and service. Despite being hailed as a king, our Lord Jesus Christ entered  Jerusalem on a donkey which was a symbol of humility. When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the  people had significant expectations largely shaped by their political and religious  circumstances. The Jewish in particular were under the Roman occupation facing oppression  and heavy taxation. In such a condition, they longed for a Messiah, a savior who would liberate  them from Roman rule and restore the kingdom of Israel. Many believed that Messiah would  be a powerful, warrior-like king who would overthrow their enemies through military might.  Many might have imagined that Jesus would ride on a war horse, symbolizing conquest and  domination, but Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem defied people’s expectations. Instead of riding a  war horse, Jesus rode a donkey, symbolizing peace, humility, and servanthood (Zechariah 9:9). His humility was further demonstrated through His obedience to God, even to the point of  dying on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8).

True greatness is not found in power, status or recognition, but in serving others, living with  purpose and making a lasting impact. In God’s kingdom, greatness is defined by love, sacrifice,  and humility but not by position or prestige. Humility has no room for self-exaltation or pride.  It doesn’t seek applause, boast in achievements or elevate self above others. It refuses to belittle  or ignore people based on status, appearance or background. A humble heart is not arrogant or  self-righteous but gentle, teachable and willing to learn. It is not driven by possessions or titles,  but by a desire to serve. Jesus, the King of Kings, owned nothing yet gave everything – that is  true humility. The Bible clearly affirms this truth: “… whoever wants to become great among  you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26) “… he humbled himself by becoming obedient to  death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8)

Christians around the world celebrate Palm Sunday, often with grand church programs to  remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. While these celebrations are meaningful, we must not  treat Palm Sunday as a mere annual tradition or ritual. It should be a moment of deep reflection,  an opportunity to cultivate the humility modelled by Jesus. Jesus showed that true greatness is  not found in self-exaltation but in living a life marked by servanthood, obedience and love. His  triumphal entry redefined greatness not through power or display, but through meekness and  surrender. May we all be reminded that humility is a key virtue in the Christian life that makes  our journey more meaningful and allows us to be a blessing to others. When we choose to walk  in humility, our actions reflect Christ and our lives become instruments of love, service and  grace. May every believer be encouraged to embrace and embody the spirit of humility. “Humility costs nothing but yields everything. It is a gift freely given, and when shared, it  multiplies, enriching both heart and life.”

Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, General Secretary,
Nagaland Baptist Church Council.