The crowd welcomed Jesus as king, and we are invited to join them.
“And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.”Matthew 21:9 (KJV)
What does “Hosanna” mean in Matthew 21:9?
Hosanna is a Hebrew cry that means save now. The crowd was echoing Psalm 118, a psalm of praise and rescue.
Going deeper
On the first day of Holy Week, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while crowds spread their cloaks and branches on the road. They shouted Hosanna to the son of David, and blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. They were welcoming Him as the promised king from David's line. Their joy was real, and their words were true. What they did not yet understand was how He would save. The king they welcomed would win by giving His life.
Palm Sunday reminds us that praise and confusion can sit side by side. Within days the mood in the city would change dramatically. We can learn from both sides. Let us welcome Him with real joy today, and let us also ask Him to lead us in His own way, even when it is different from what we expected. Take a moment to say Hosanna aloud, meaning save us, and mean it with your whole heart.
Reflect
In what way might you be expecting Jesus to act differently than He does?
Pray
Lord Jesus, Hosanna. Save us, and be welcome as our King. Lead us in Your own way, even when it surprises us. In Jesus' name, amen.
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