By Rev. Joe Zarro, Interim Senior Minister
It was great having “Liberty” the donkey (and “Miracle” the baby cow) join us for fellowship hour on Palm Sunday. Obviously, a donkey features prominently in the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and it made our Palm Sunday that much more special to have a real life donkey. But I must confess, I missed an opportunity to share something special about donkeys during worship – they have a cross on their backs!
Legend says it’s a blessing for carrying Jesus on its back. There’s even a story about how the donkey that carried Jesus into Jerusalem also followed him to Golgotha, and when Jesus died on the cross, the shadow of the cross fell on the donkey’s back and then left a permanent blessing that all donkeys now carry.
This isn’t biblical or scientific, but it is still beautiful symbolism. The donkey is a “beast of burden” – they are asked to carry heavy loads for others. They can plow fields, travel 15-20 miles a day, and can carry about a quarter of their body weight with incredible endurance. They are also herd animals – naturally social and cooperative with each other. They may not be glamorous, but they are rugged and useful. And while known for stubbornness, their steadfastness is part of what makes them so special – they do not panic easily and are stoic through challenges and hardship.
Sheep tend to be the primary animal associated with Christians, but donkeys can teach us a lot as well. In humility, we should value service over status. In faith, we should be strong and steadfast. In community, we should be willing to work together, and be willing to bear burdens for one another.
May God bless us with the faith of a donkey.