Luther's House-Postil, First Sunday in Advent, Matthew 21:1-9

The House-Postil were sermons / devotional teachings that Luther gave at his home to his wife, children, and whatever friends happened to be visiting with him.  They are organized around the various celebrations of the church calendar (Advent, Easter, etc.).

In the first sermon in this volume, Luther preaches on the so called "triumphal entry" of Jesus into Jerusalem.  Jesus didn't arrive with earthly glory, like most human rulers do, but he came in a simple, humble way, just as the prophet Zechariah announced the Messiah would, centuries before.   Luther compares the humility of Jesus with the self-enhancing approach of most leaders in government and even sometimes in the church.  And Jesus's followers responded by walking beside him in his humility.  They were not ashamed of being associated with him.  Nor should we be ashamed of his humility, but we should acknowledge that we associate ourselves with him.  And Jesus's followers called for the success of his kingdom saying, "hosanna!"  So also should we pray for the arrival and unveiling of his kingdom.  And His followers laid down their coats before him, preparing the way.  Luther says this teaches the church to lay out their earthly goods to help fund and provide for good preachers and teachers to announce Christ and make him known for the strengthening of his church.