It was a day of rejoicing because Jesus had won the hearts of the people and they were convinced that He’d come to bring the Hebrew nation victory over their oppressors.  The Messiah, promised in the Old Testament had come to be their King and give them their rightful place in the world once more. Like His ancestor, King David, He entered the city as a king, but He was much more – a rabbi – a miracle worker – a storyteller – a humble servant. He didn’t sit on a magnificent stallion nor wear clothing befitting royalty. He showed humility and compassion as the crowd honored Him with palm branches and hosannas. The shouts were overwhelming. The joy exhibited on the faces of His followers was apparent. This time He was coming to be the final sacrifice, the willing, unblemished Lamb, the Son of God and the King of Kings.

The Pharisees were indignant and told the crowd to be quiet. They called this “King” a blasphemer. Their own jobs were being challenged by this charlatan. In their view, this Jesus was nothing more than a rabble rouser. They saw Him as a threat to what they were teaching. He continued on, not because He was relishing the popularity shown Him, but as the unblemished Lamb of God, prepared to die for the sins of the world. He refused to silence the crowd and added that even if He did, the stones would continue to shout.

God wants complete attention when it comes to our worship life.  He is jealous and rightly so.  He created us – loves us unconditionally – gave His life for us.   Is our worship life slipping away?  Do we revere God the way we should?  Is He first?  Have we turned our hearts to other things or is He at the forefront of our adoration?

As we celebrate Palm Sunday today, let’s turn our eyes to Jesus and the amazing week that was to come. His humanity would be put to the test. He would be mocked, shamed, humiliated and tortured. He would stand up to the church leaders. He would suffer, die and at the end He would rise from the dead. Hosanna to our Jesus. He is our Savior and King. Praise His Holy name.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!