Sunday of Palms

They took palm branches and went out to meet [Jesus], shouting,
"Hosanna!"
"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Blessed is the King of Israel!" (John 12:13)

On Sunday, the Christian church celebrated Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem for the final week of his earthly ministry. We acknowledge that he is King of kings and Lord of lords -- our King. We marvel at how he is a King unlike any other. Humble, not arrogant. Who rules with peace instead of the threat of war. Obedient to his Father's will. One who comes to serve instead of be served. One who gives his life for his subjects rather than demand that they give their life for him.

But Jesus' triumph came at a price. The shouts of "Hosanna" changed to "Crucify him!" in five short days. As you travel with Jesus to the cross this Holy Week, marvel that God's Son would give his life for yours. Treasure Christ's blood shed to pay for your sins. Praise Jesus for taking your guilt as his own and suffering the full wrath of God so that you would not have to.

Look forward to next Sunday when the shouts will change once again. From "Crucify him!" to "He is not here. He is risen, just as he said!" Then celebrate Jesus' greatest triumph -- his victory over sin, death and the devil. And rejoice that as your King, he gives that victory to you!

The Lord bless you with his Peace,
NW

Culture sidelight: Does your church have to buy palm branches from the florist for Palm Sunday? In the Caribbean we just go outside and cut a few branches off the palm trees in our front yard!