But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession.
(2 Corinthians 2:14 ESV)
Yesterday, Christians everywhere celebrated Palm Sunday, Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. I’ve heard it said that when a triumphant king returned from battle, he was welcomed the way Jesus was – with clothes and branches spread on the ground before him. But Jesus hadn’t yet won the battle with sin, death and the devil, so why call it the triumphal entry?
See, Heaven had a different viewpoint. The battle had already been won, as far as God was concerned. Oftentimes we wait for the victory to come before we act victorious, but Jesus lived with the end in mind. He was going to win the battle and acted like a triumphant King, even if others didn’t see Him that way. Jesus knew the pain and suffering that awaited Him, but He also saw the glory and joy that were in store for Him.
Don’t wait until your circumstances get better before you start to live like a conqueror. As far as Heaven is concerned, you’re an overcomer. That’s a good reason to celebrate and enjoy life.
