On Palm Sunday, Pastor Ryan Wetherhead discussed Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem from Luke 19, emphasizing how the expectations of the crowd were misaligned with the reality of His mission. As Jesus rode a humble donkey instead of a war horse, He signified His intent to bring peace rather than conquest. Pastor Ryon shared personal experiences of grief and disappointment, illustrating how our expectations of God can sometimes lead to confusion when His plans differ from ours. Ultimately, he encouraged the congregation to trust in Jesus as the King who understands our struggles and desires to transform us from the inside out.

What is an expectation you've had in your life that turned out to be different than you anticipated?

• What did Jesus tell his disciples to do and why? What is the significance of how Jesus came into Jerusalem that day?

• How did the people react to Jesus's arrival? What do their actions and words reveal about their expectations?

• What caused Jesus’ anguish in verse 41? Contrast this with what he had just experienced as he arrived in Jerusalem.

• How does it affect us when we have misaligned expectations when it comes to our relationship with God?

• Recognizing Jesus' humility, what significance does that hold for how we view Jesus?

• How does this account shift your perspective on your circumstances and how God is working in your life?

• Do you recognize him and what he's doing in your life?

Is there a situation in your life where you are struggling to see God's control? How can you choose to trust him moving forward?

• Have you actually invited him in to be a part of that with you?

How will knowing that Jesus empathizes with your struggles change the way you approach him in prayer this week?

• Do you long to be changed from the inside out?

In what area of your life do feel the Holy Spirit’s invitation for inward transformation? How will you respond?

• Pray for transparency with God about your expectations.

• Ask for strength to trust God when things don’t go as planned.

• Seek guidance on how to align your expectations with God’s will.

• Lift up those struggling with their faith during challenging times.

Spend time studying Philippians 2:6-11. As you revisit the accounts of Jesus death and resurrection this week think about what you have learned from this text.

• In taking the form of a servant, what did Jesus experience?

• What is the result of his humility and obedience? How has this affected you personally?

• As you adopt the same mindset as Jesus, what in your life will change?