7 And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and he sat upon him. 8 And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way. 9 And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord: 10 Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest. (Mark 11:7-10 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
Observe here, The obedience of his disciples. First, They did as Jesus had commanded, they do not dispute their Lord’s commands, nor raise objections, nor are afraid of dangers: when our call is clear, our obedience must be speedy; what Christ commands we are not to dispute, but to obey.
Observe, 2. The actions of the multitude in acknowledging Christ to be their King; they cast their garments on the ground for him to ride upon, according to the custom of princes when they ride in state; and do not only disrobe their backs, but expend their breath in joyful acclamations, and loud hosannas, wishing all manner of prosperity to their meek but mighty King. In this princely, yet poor and despicable pomp, doth our Saviour enter the famous city of Jerusalem.
O how far was our holy Lord from affecting worldly greatness and grandeur! He despised that glory which worldly hearts fondly admire; yet because he was a King, he would be proclaimed such, and have his kingdom confessed, applauded, and blessed. But that it might appear that his kingdom was not of this world, he abandons all worldly magnificence. O glorious, yet homely pomp! O meek, but mighty Prince!