Hosanna

And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”

Matthew 21:9 (ESV)

Jesus rode into Jerusalem to a hero’s welcome. People lined the streets to greet the man who had worked miracles and taught with an authority that was unmatched by any other. It was miraculous, too, that the people would openly praise Jesus considering how much the priests and the ruling elite hated him. It was a risk to say the least. Yet, there they were praising the name of God and shouting “Hosanna! Hosanna!” with unhindered joy. (The word Hosanna literally means “Praise be to God! Salvation has come!”)

Of course, this was only the beginning of the journey for Jesus in Jerusalem. He would enter with a royal parade and die a criminal’s death just a short time later. How quickly us humans move from praise to condemnation.

The unfortunate reality is that this scene plays out in our own lives far too often. We are excited and joy filled in the moment when we sense the Savior’s presence, when we are overwhelmed by the moving of the Holy Spirit. We sing praises at the top of our lungs (hopefully on key) and wear a smile on our faces. Jesus is near. It’s all good. However, when we don’t sense His presence as powerfully, or maybe not at all, the joy-filled parade comes to a screeching halt. How soon we forget the miracles He has done. How quickly we forget the promises fulfilled. How tragic that we forget how much He loves and cherishes each one of us.

Jesus’s love for us never fades. He does not love us less when we haven’t spent the time with Him that perhaps we should. He does not love us less when tragedy strikes our families and friends. He does not love us less when we question His methods or motives. He does not love us less when we do things contrary to His law and teaching. His love does not run hot or cold. His love is constant and unchanging.

So, here’s a couple of questions: When is the last time you gave Jesus a “Hosanna!?” When is the last time you shouted the good things about Jesus? Make today a Hosanna day. Let there be joy in your heart for the good things He has done, is doing, and will do.