And many were spreading their garments on the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road.
This action of the people was a sign of a royal reception. Spreading garments on the road meant honor and submission, and the branches were a symbol of joy and a triumphant welcome. Yet most of the people still did not fully understand what kind of King they were greeting. They expected a messianic victory, but many imagined that victory in the form of earthly liberation and national glory. Christ accepts this honor because He truly is King, but His kingdom was to be revealed through the cross. This scene reminds us that a person can honor Christ outwardly, yet still must learn the true meaning of His kingdom.