From the Pulpit: We cry HOSANNA

By: 
Pastor Kirk Strand, Brandon Valley Assembly of God

2,000 years ago, in the city of Jerusalem, a great crowd entered the city. It had started small, perhaps only 13, as Christ and his 12 disciples left their place of rest.

People were waiting outside, they immediately followed. Others, caught up in the moment joined in. Some knew who was in the center, this was Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Many more, only in the area to celebrate the Passover, became part of the crowd, drawn by the excitement.

It was a different time. Rumors were everywhere about this man and his friends from Galilee. But few had actually seen him with their own eyes. They had heard so many stories, and now they began to wonder, is this the one the prophets had foretold.

In the joy of the moment, people began to sing, then shout. They cut down branches from different trees and placed them on the road ahead of the crowd. Still others took off garments and robes, laying them on the path, preparing the way of the King.

According to Matthew 21, a very large crowd had gathered. It had become a procession, a parade. In front and behind were people shouting. And in the middle, sat Jesus, riding on a donkey.  

The closer they came to the city, the larger the spectacle. And the shout became a rhythmic chant: “Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the Highest.”

      Can we leave the celebration, and take a look at what they were saying? “HOSANNA,” simply means “Save Us.” Over the years, it has become more of a worship word. But it is a cry for help, much like a person who is drowning, or in great need.  

As Christ was entering the city of Jerusalem, they people were crying “Save Us!” Save us from the Romans, save us from the persecution and struggles of our time. Save us from our situations, our sin and the continual oppression of life.

Today, we find ourselves in the place of great need. We face an uncertain future. Questions of the economy, a virus, and a world out of balance are everywhere. And in this time, I cry out “Hosanna, Save us!”

Together, as a community, we join the ancient crowd, and look towards heaven and declare … “Hosanna, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” 

God Bless. I am praying for you.

 

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The Brandon Valley Journal

 

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