# Palm Sunday: Seeking God, finding God
*2009-04-04*

> Bill Young reflects on the Gospel of Mark and the significance of Jesus choosing an unridden colt for his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.

## The Lord's Request

Today is Palm Sunday, and we are reading from a guide called Seeking God, Finding God: Meditations, Activities, and Prayers for Lent 2009. In the Gospel of Mark 11:2-3, Jesus says to his disciples, 'Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it. If anyone ask you why are you doing this? Just say, the Lord needs it.'

## The Value of Inexperience

Have you ever wondered why Jesus asked for a colt that had never been ridden for his triumphal entry into Jerusalem? It might seem that it would have been safer to take a more steady, experienced animal into the crowds that gathered around him. However, when the Gospel offers such exact detail, there is usually a reason for its inclusion.

As people, we put great weight on experience. It frequently triumphs over energy, enthusiasm, and even learning. We often defer tasks to people with more experience, not trusting our own untried ability. Jesus behaved differently.

## Called and Equipped

When the Master has a need of us, it seems inexperience is a positive thing. We can be as green as that unridden colt and still make a difference. The Lord still calls us and uses us when He needs us, and then He provides what we need to accomplish the task we are given. We simply need to be open to His meeting.

## Reflecting on the Holy Week

Take a few minutes today to reflect on your own life and the times when God has used you despite your inexperience. Consider in new ways how Jesus might be calling you at the beginning of this holiest of weeks. Is there something you would do for the Lord if you only had a little more experience? This week, try to do it anyway.

*God can use us regardless of our lack of experience, providing exactly what we need to accomplish the tasks He calls us to do.*