Matthew 21:7-9 Nearly all the people in the
crowd threw their garments down on the road,
giving him a royal welcome. Others cut branches
from the trees and threw them down as a
welcome mat. Crowds went ahead and crowds
followed, all of them calling out, “Hosanna to
David’s son!” “Blessed is he who comes in God’s
name!” “Hosanna in highest heaven!” (The Message)
On that first Palm Sunday, the air in Jerusalem was electric. The people shouted "Hosanna!" because they expected a political liberator—a king on a warhorse who would overthrow Roman rule. Instead, Jesus arrived on a young donkey, a symbol of peace and humility. Jesus didn't come to change the political landscape. He came to change human hearts. He knew that by the end of the week, the same voices shouting "Hosanna" would be crying "Crucify Him!”
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for coming in
meekness to rescue us. As we begin this Holy
Week, we turn our eyes toward the cross. May
your peace rule in our hearts, and may our lives
reflect the gratitude we feel for your ultimate
sacrifice. Amen.
By Emily Selbe