Once upon a time, there was a farmer. The farmer had a donkey; it was too small to do any work. The farmer planned to kill him, but his children begged that his life be spared. The little donkey was left tied to a tree on the road to Jerusalem. Later that day the farmer was approached by two men who told him that Jesus of Nazareth needed the donkey. The donkey – little esteemed by the farmer – was taken away for Jesus to use. Was he the chosen one? I wonder!
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The Nubian donkey has a cross on its back and it is said that it is one of this breed of donkeys that carried Jesus into Jerusalem.
A fable again, that the donkey knew Jesus very well; that whom he carried was facing a trial and much suffering. The donkey wished he could even have carried the cross for Jesus and borne his burden. He loved Jesus so much he followed him to Calvary; and he turned his head away as he could not bear to look at Jesus hanging on the cross.
The story goes on that his loyalty, humility, and passion for Jesus caused the shadow of the cross fall across his back. And there is the sign of the cross on the Jerusalem Nubian donkey, depicting – for all to see – the love of God.
It is said that the cross on the back of each Nubian donkey is different. No two are alike.
(credit: iStock)
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Leland P. Gamson who enjoys telling animal stories to children in his book ‘The Donkey Who Carried Jesus’ goes a little further and talks about ‘Katen’ a delightful colt, who was chosen by Jesus along with his mum. As they walked, the cheering crowd named him ‘Lokael’ meaning ‘The one who carries the Lord’.
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In ancient days donkeys were associated with royalty.
Judges 10:4 records one of Israel’s judges, ‘Jair’ who had 30 sons, rode 30 donkeys to 30 cities….
Judges 12:14 likewise mentions ‘Abdon’, who had 40 sons, and 30 grandsons who rode on 70 donkeys.
I Kings 1:33-44, David had his son Solomon ride his donkey to be anointed by the priest, thereby making him the rightful heir to his father’s throne.
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The donkey might be considered lowly. As a breed, they are mocked and derided by society in general. But mind you, he has a ‘secret’ which he keeps to himself. He has had his ‘hour of honor’ and ‘his moment in the sun’. Yes, indeed there was a time when Jesus chose him.
All four gospels of the Bible record the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on a ‘colt’.
Mathew puts it differently (Matt 21:4-7); that Jesus rode on a donkey and a colt, a foal of a donkey. Alternately? Perhaps . Matthew no doubt was echoing the prophet Zechariah.
(Zech 9:9)
Rejoice greatly,
Daughter Zion!
Shout, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your king comes to you,
righteous and victorious,
lowly and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
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On ‘Palm Sunday’, Jesus prepares to commence passion week – the week leading to his crucifixion – by entering Jerusalem atop a colt.
He selected two of his disciples and instructed them. They went into the village, found the colt, unridden, unbroken, and untied it. I am struck by the words that the disciples are given to say should their assignment be questioned; they would answer ‘The Lord needs it’.
God’s purposes are forever eternal. Do we heed His call and execute what he wishes us to accomplish, or do we remain fearful, stubborn and firmly tied?
The untied colt was brought, and cloaks were laid on him for Jesus to sit on.
Jesus was acclaimed by the people with joy and enthusiasm as they strewed their cloaks on the road and cut branches from trees, waved them, and spread them for him to ride on. (John records the details that the branches they cut were from palm trees John 12:13. (Palm (phoenix) -victory, eternal life.)
(Credit: Children’s chapel)
Jesus was hailed verbally too “Hosannah!” “Blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord! “Blessed is the King of Israel!”.
Were they just loudly proclaiming ‘SAVE US’, a cry to save them from a system that took advantage of the poor and allowed the temple to be used to perpetuate injustice?
What are our thoughts as we wave palm branches on Palm Sunday? Do they take into account the current, not too cheery political scenario?
The Hosannas were loud but did not last long. Soon they turned into vehement cries – “crucify him”!
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We need to remember that the final entry of Jesus into Jerusalem was solemn and humble. He was the ‘King of Peace’ riding on a donkey in contrast to a war-waging king arriving on a horse.
Kings have found it necessary to force their way through crowds, riding rough shod, trampling on people in their quest to conquer the throne; but in contrast, none was hurt when Jesus came to Zion! Just boughs and palm fronds, shouts and songs when the King of Peace arrived!
Do we welcome Him or reject Him? He brings joy, peace and hope. Let’s allow Him to enter our hearts and dwell therein.
Does the Lord need me? Do I make a difference to Him, among the zillions on planet Earth? Could an Omnipotent God ever need anything or anybody?
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A favorite poem of mine by G.K. Chesterton collection ‘ The Wild Knight and Other Poems’ tells the story of the humble donkey from the donkey’s point of view:
When fishes flew and forests walked
And figs grew upon thorn,
Some moment when the moon was blood.
Then surely, I was born.
With a monstrous head and sickening cry
And ears like errant wings,
The Devil’s Walking parody
On all four-footed things.
The tattered outlaw of the earth,
Of ancient crooked will.
Starve, scourge, deride me: I am dumb,
I keep my secret still.
Fools! For I also had my hour.
One far fierce hour and sweet:
There was a shout about my ears,
And palms before my feet.
Hey, you Lokael! Aren’t you the lucky one!! Do you have a sign which says…I carried Jesus, the King of Peace!
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The author’s bio (in her own words):
# Medical Microbiologist. I love science. Aww! The freaking microbes are my best friends. You can call me a virus hunter too. Status quo for almost two decades. I love assisting physicians to efficiently diagnose and aid in healing humans. Basically an alumna of the CMC Vellore, my career trajectory led me to the vigorous Middle East; my profile was enhanced there, working alongside professional from the Royal Health Ministry. My “Aha” moments are when I’m engrossed in reading. How magically they steal my time! Currently a homemaker, I consider it a real privilege to debut as a guest in one of the remarkable weblogs I follow avidly!
I know you are curious; this is she:
Though “donkey” is in part the subject Sneha writes on, when it comes to rides, she prefers a much higher perch as you can see!
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This was a beautiful article. Especially loved the poem at the end. It was raw, fierce, dramatic. Kudos to the author – she fully deserves it!
Yes donkeys are humble animals, but used by God, even by opening it’s mouth to rebuke Balaam.
Nice blog. Keep up the good work
Very interesting reading & apt for this season of Lent. The spotlight is on the humble donkey whose worth increased manifold after it carried Jesus on its back…” Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time” – 1 Peter 5:6…
Such an interesting & encouraging read!
Thankyou for writing this great piece and the blog was perfect. Congratulations Sneha on your work, keep posting more blogs so that they bring light to the readers. I loved your writing skill with perfect formatting and use of space and your own photograph. All the best for your future work Sneha.
Great going Sneha! Interesting.
Hearing for the first time about Nubian donkey with a Cross on its back! Wonderful! Hats off to Sneha! You have penned it beautifully!
Beautiful write-up !!
Such a delightful devotion of an event in the life of Christ our King, with a myriad ways of looking at it – it was a pleasure to read through the whole devotion. Thanks to the author, a dear friend of mine.
Love the reminder that the words of Zechariah are written in Matthew. Are we not also as followers of Christ like the colt ‘in His service’?
Hope to read more of your musings Sneha.
Good job on compiling all the stories and fables together
Very interesting to read, Great work!
What a beautiful Palm Sunday message !!
Thanks for the unknown interesting stories about the lowly donkey that carried Jesus. Excellent write up. Way to go !!
Wonderful sneg…please continue writing ..
Wow… love this. I’m not a voracious reader like my mom but I always fall for my Judah uncle’s fabulous writing skills. And you add value to his blog too. Started very simple with a fable but connected through various references from athe Bible and ended with GK Chesterton’s… felt like a window seat journey. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep going. Especially, loved the way you introduced yourself.
What a captivating article! It beautifully highlights the profound symbolism of Jesus choosing a humble donkey to ride into Jerusalem, exemplifying his humility and connection to the ordinary aspects of life. This choice echoes throughout history, reminding us of the value of humility and the unexpected ways in which greatness can manifest.
The scripture says in
1 Corinthians 27-29
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are..that no flesh should glory in His presence.
Thank you for sharing such a thought -provoking perspective on this timeless story.
May God bless you Sneha
Your loving sister… Sheela
NewZealand
Carefully chosen words beautifully animated to enrich the readers mind while speaking the Lord’s word into their heart. Was Blessed ! Wish you fabulous journey of writing.
Very nicely written and engaging. Th story of the lowly donkey has been written and re- written many times. The reference to other authors and their writing and the final finish with a poem is done well.
I am quite captivated by the way the simple story of the donkey who carried Jesus is narrated in this mix of “tales, fables and lessons for the day”. As the host of the site, I am a wee bit envious of the plethora of comments the Guest Columnist has been able to attract. Perhaps soon there should a new category titled “Sneha’s Column” in this blog in order to give wider scope for her writing skills; that is until she creates her own weblog. I can only hope that at that time she will deign to have me as a Guest.
Well done Sneha! God bless
I am quite captivated by the way the simple story of the donkey who carried Jesus is narrated in this mix of “tales, fables and lessons for the day”. As the host of the site, I am a wee bit envious of the plethora of comments the Guest Columnist has been able to attract. Perhaps soon there should a new category titled “Sneha’s Column” in this blog in order to give wider scope for her writing skills; that is until she creates her own weblog. I can only hope that at that time she will deign to have me as a Guest.
Well done Sneha! God bless
First and foremost,dearJudah annan,let me say,I’m much obliged and a Big ‘Thank you’for the opportunity you gave me as a guest columnist on your remarkable weblog.’Its an honor’ indeed!
Amazing encouragement from your side motivated me to overcome my initial hurdles.Writing-appeared daunting! Was it like coaxing a stubborn equine,refusing to budge? lol.
I’m unsure if I’ll ever have an inclination to venture into creating my own blog,but I truly appreciate your wish to do so.
Now that you’ve mentioned being a guest on my hypothetical blog,let me ponder over it,maybe with a hint of laughter…Haha…
Sneha
Hi Paapu
Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your comments.
Sneha.
Hey Ruby!
I genuinely appreciate your feedback.Thanks dear.
Sneha
Dearest sis,
Thanks.I truly appreciate the motivation you provide now and always.I’m sure it will continue to have a profound impact and will push me to strive for excellence in whatever I do.Your words mean a lot to me Sheel.
Sneha.
Hi Caleb!! Appreciate your comments yaar!Thanks for the lovely input.
Sneha.
Hey Sheebs!!
Thank you very much.Will try my best.
Sneha.
Hello Vanitha,
Thank you for the encouragement. Much appreciated.
Sneha.
Hey Doll!
Good to hear from you.I appreciate your feedback.Motivates me for sure.
Sneha.
Hi Pratiba,
Definitely agree with you.Hope I live up to your expectations.
Sneha
Hey Vimala,
A real joy to hear from you!Greatly appreciate your comments and commend you specially for finding time to reply back busy doc.
Sneha
Hi Sumi! Happy you liked it! Thanks a lot dear.
Sneha.
Dear maam,Thank you for the encouragement. I do hold your comments in high regard.Keep praying for me.
Sneha.
Hiii!
Thanks a lot.Encouraging indeed!
Sneha.
Selvi my dear friend!
Thank you very much.Do appreciate your feedback.Style,format,all noticed..Haha…
Sneha
Hi Princy!!
Thank you for sharing your comments doc!! Valued!!
Sneha.
There you are Suni!!
Your support is incredibly valuable! Thank you very much.
Sneha.
Dear aunty,
A blessing to hear from you! Thank you for the input.Much appreciation for your kindness.
Sneha.
Lovely write up. The thought that God uses the unwise too for His kingdom makes us realise that we shouldn’t boast about the talents we have. God bless you and use you .
Blessed to read this
Though it’s Easter
Hi Doc,
Thanks for carving out time to give your feedback.I do appreciate it Thambu and feel blessed too!!
Sneha.
Thank you very much Principal madam,my good friend! Your thoughts are much appreciated Ratna! Thanks for the encouragement as well.
Sneha.
Intriguing and well researched piece of writing. Beautifully woven together.
Keep up the good work, Sneha.
Stay blessed.
Sarah. B
Hi Thomas!
Thank you very much.
Words of appreciation from a writer,author and a wizard on a computer.Sure,I do feel encouraged.
Sneha
Telling myself I’ve heard from someone who is a passionate admirer of literature and who cherishes the art of writing!! Thanks a lot my dear childhood friend! It means a lot to me.
Sneha.
Wonderful writings Sneha. The least in the sight of mankind is The Best for Jesus. Congrats Sneha.keep it up.
Beautifully articulated.
Thanks a lot Ann! I do appreciate your input dear!such a busy person!!
Sneha.
Glory ka! Great to hear from you.You’ve managed to squeeze in time amidst your ministry work and reply.Thank you ka.Encouraged indeed!
Sneha
Lovely article! I liked the way you have woven in folklore, scriptures and the beautiful poem by Chesterton. Keep writing and continue to bless others.
Hannah ( your sister Sheila’s friend)
Well said!!!
The passion towards the theme and the command over the language have made this piece unique…. The donkey has become no longer a donkey…. A new way of looking at the animal which carried Jesus…. An amazing article….
Excellent Sneha.. My wishes
It was a wonderful reading Sneha, perched on a window seat in the upper deck of the Train number 22625 bound for Bangalore reading the story, rather, the history of the donkey THAT CARRIED THE LORD on her back!
I would love to think that, yes, the gentle nubian donkey is a female!
Pondering over the journey of the Lord to Jerusalem on that Palm Sunday during this Easter Octave after 2024 Years!
You have offered so much food for my meditation Sneha!
Small is beautiful!
Well, I will continue my contemplation later along my journey!
Now Sneha, I know you studied chemistry and went through medical sciences, microbiology, biochemistry…
But today I have the opportunity to appreciate your writing skills too, your passionate reading and exploration through the Sacred Scripture, your interpretation of God’s Word and its applications to life’s situations!
I enjoyed your writing, your poetry, your longing to share your insights!!!
Go ahead dear Sneha!
May you find sufficient time along with your home making and nurturing a lovely daughter and attending to a caring husband, also to share your thoughts and perceptions!
I see that you have the stuff in you to make a great author and steal readers hearts! All the best!
I’m reaching my destination!
Shall keep in touch!