The Lord's donkey

Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey. – Matthews 21:5

People often speak of donkeys in belittling terms. You may have heard the expression, “I’m just someone who has to do all the donkey work.” Or “So-and-so is as stubborn as a mule” (a mule is part donkey).

These sayings overlook the contributions of a truly valuable animal. Donkeys have served the human race for thousands of years. They were once prized as symbols of humility, gentleness, and peace.

In Bible days, donkeys that had never been ridden were regarded as especially suitable for religious purposes. So it was most fitting that Jesus sent for a colt to perform the royal task of carrying Him in Jerusalem. How enviable was that donkey’s mission! How like our mission as Jesus’ followers!

A missionary in China calls herself “the Lord’s donkey.” She’s a humble believer, “carrying” her Lord faithfully into town after town and training others to do likewise. The Lord has need of many such “donkeys” in today’s world – humble people who will carry Him into their Jerusalem and make Him known.

The donkey had to be untied before Jesus could use it. We too must be released from worldly attachments. Are we willing to be the Lord’s donkey?

– Joanie Yoder

Teach me to do the humble task

The very best I can,

And not to look for greater calls

Which may oppose Thy plan.

– Bernheisel

READ: Matthew 21:1-11

Humble work becomes holy work when it’s done for God.

The Bible in one year:

• 1 Kings 8-10