Try as we might, we can never replicate the events of Palm Sunday, for they are followed by the cataclysmic events of the crucifixion. The joy that was expressed in the streets of Jerusalem when people waved palms and threw their garments on the ground, is not the same as our joy, for ours is augmented by the knowledge of the Resurrection.

Nevertheless, the crowds who celebrated Jesus’ entry into the city were a foreshadow of the parades and demonstrations that would continue for thousands of years in Easter celebrations. In those precious moments of Jesus’ journey are shown the spirit of a people in recognition of the presence of their God in the person of His son. It was a spontaneous display that even the disciples did not foresee.

“Centuries earlier, though, the prophet Isaiah wrote, “Prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. . . and the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together.” (Isaiah 40:3&5)

The incident we now call “Palm Sunday”, when people cried out, “Hosanna to the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory to God!” (Luke 19:38), remained in the consciousness of Christians everywhere since the scriptures were written. It has enduring meaning because God intends it to have eternal meaning.

When Isaiah wrote “Make straight a highway for our God” he wasn’t calling on the government to build more roads, but upon believers to open their hearts and minds more fully to the divine life of their God.

Jesus knew the importance of the celebration of his presence in the midst of his people. He said, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out!” Luke 19:40).

Palm Sunday starts the roller coaster of events of Holy Week at a high place, only to plunge into the somber events of the Last Supper , the arrest, and Crucifixion of Christ. Palm Sunday is a distant glimmer of Jesus’ identity and greatness, intended to cast a light on all subsequent events, and for us and all believers to see in the palms and branches the prophesy of Isaiah and the promise it contains for all generations. It’s a long light that reaches into both the past and the future. Like all else in Jesus, it draws us toward his own eternal life.

Love in Him,

Prue