After reaching the Mount of Olives on their way to Jerusalem, Jesus instructs two disciples to get a colt and a donkey from a nearby village. They do as they are told, and soon people are gathered as Jesus enters the city. Those in attendance have spread their coats and some tree branches on the ground as an act of homage. But Jesus from Galilee is a different kind of ruler, both in appearance and in manner. Jesus concentrates on his status as servant because it has been foretold that the Messiah will come in humility.

The city is unsettled as Jesus enters, but he is undaunted by those who oppose him. Even though he knows he is journeying toward his death, he comes as the Messiah. In other words, Jesus has a job to do, and he is doing as his Father commanded.

We too are called to follow God’s instructions. Even if we don’t understand why we are being sent to a neighboring village for farm animals, there will be a reason. For Christians, real understanding takes place in the heart and soul. In today’s culture, though, with its emphasis on forging one’s own path and do-your-own-thing mentality, it can be a challenge to take the backseat, to let God drive.

I won’t bore—or depress—you with how many times I’ve taken control when I should have just experienced the ride. Learn from my mistakes, and let God do what God does best.