The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ‘Hosanna in the highest heaven! – Matthew 21:9
Palm Sunday marks the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, a moment filled with symbolism and prophecy. The crowd’s cry of “Hosanna” and Jesus’ choice to ride on a donkey carry profound spiritual significance. Today, let us explore these elements and what they mean for us as followers of Christ.
A Cry of Salvation and Declaration of Hope
1. Child of God, the word Hosanna originates from the Hebrew phrase “Hoshi’a na,” meaning “Save us, we pray” (Psalm 118:25). It was initially a plea for help but evolved into a declaration of praise and salvation. On Palm Sunday, as Jesus entered Jerusalem the crowd shouted Hosanna to the son of David. The gospel according to Matthew 21:9 captures it better ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’. By this act they acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah, the one who brings deliverance.
Hosanna also reflects the hope and expectation of the people, who believed Jesus would liberate them. While they anticipated political freedom, Jesus came to offer spiritual salvation.
The Significance of Riding on a Donkey: Peace and Humility
2. Child of God, Jesus’ choice to ride on a donkey fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9: “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey.” This act signified that Jesus was the promised King, but not a warrior king. He came in peace and humility.
In ancient times, kings rode horses during war and donkeys during times of peace. By riding a donkey, Jesus demonstrated His mission as the Prince of Peace as written in the book of the prophet Isaiah 9:6:
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
His entry on a donkey contrasts with worldly expectations of power and dominance, emphasizing humility and servanthood.
3. Just as the crowd cried “Hosanna,” we must acknowledge Jesus as the one who saves us from sin and death. As the bible says: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). Jesus’ choice to ride a donkey teaches us the value of humility. As followers of Christ, we are called to serve others with love and humility for it is written: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
Again, Jesus’ peaceful entry reminds us to be peacemakers in a world filled with conflict. for the bible says: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
TASK
Since Palm Sunday is a celebration of Jesus our Savior and King, who comes in humility and peace, and the cry of “Hosanna” and the image of Jesus riding on a donkey is an invitation to reflect on His mission and our response, ask yourself: Am I humble? Am I a peaceful person? Remember, peace is the seed ground for holiness! Peace is also the seed ground for progress, whether physical or spiritual progress. Read the bible verses and declare:
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John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” I declare, I receive peace, I shall fear nothing!
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Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I declare, I receive divine understanding, I shall have peace of mind in Jesus name!
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Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” I declare my trust in you Jesus, give me perfect peace!
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1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.” Jesus, I know I am not alone, you are with me and you care for me! One with you is majority! I fear nothing, in Jesus name. Amen
PRAYER
I pray for you, that the Spirit of humility will touch you and drive away from you every haughtiness and pride. May the Spirit of peace envelope your heart and drive out all fears now, in Jesus name. Amen.
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