Hosanna

And when he entered Jerusalem the whole city was shaken and asked, "Who is this?" - Mt 21:10

It is Palm Sunday, and Jesus enters Jerusalem hailed as King and Messiah. The joyful crowds of Jews, assembled for the Passover, would recognize Jesus' entrance as fulfilling a messianic prophecy:

Exult greatly, O daughter Zion!
Shout for joy, O daughter Jerusalem!
Behold: your king is coming to you,
a just savior is he,
Humble, and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey (Zech 9:9).

In ancient Middle Eastern countries, leaders would ride in on horses if they were going to war, but on a donkey if they came in peace. Jesus is the best kind of royal figure: just, gentle, and humble.

He comes not to conquer, but to save.

Despite the triumphant welcome, the day is also tinged with sorrow. Jesus comes to Jerusalem in obedience to His Father's will that He suffer, die, and be raised for the good of mankind.

Prayer: Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.

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