Hosanna in the Highest

April 2, 2023

hosanna in the highest

“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 (NIV)

When was the last time you watched a parade? Last year we got to attend a local parade where all the schools, clubs and businesses in the small town near us brought out their best and to showcase what they cared about most. They dressed up, decorated cars, trucks and trailers to let us know they were proud of their schools, sports clubs, charities and businesses. And they went beyond that—the parade included participants who walked besides the cars and floats and threw candy into the crowd (along with business cards.) We had heard this would happen so we went prepared with empty plastic bags for the grandkids so they could take some goodies home. Personally we collected business cards—because why not support local businesses? It was a festive occasion.

It was festive, but not as festive as that Sunday long ago when Jesus entered Jerusalem and his followers and interested onlookers heralded his arrival. No one said the powerful word Hosanna in Leo, Indiana. That word was the unique heartcry of the parade-goers in Jerusalem the day that Jesus arrived. It was a special moment in history and this special word is remembered by all. Hosanna is an expression of adoration, praise and joy. It is from a Biblical Hebrew phrase meaning “Pray, save us.” Matthew used this amazing word in his gospel story of the triumphal entry of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem at the beginning of Holy week, leading up to his crucifixion. John adds that the people shouting Hosanna also waved palm branches, and we now know this day as Palm Sunday.

The word Hosanna carries with it great joy—this “parade” would have truly been a joyous moment for those who cried out “Hosanna.” But it is more than that. Those who waved the palms branches at this parade knew that they needed help from the highest heaven to save them. The word Hosanna held an underlying sense of desperation and yet hope. Don’t miss that.

As you experience Palm Sunday this year, will you take time to think deeply of your desperate need for rescue? Then in gratefulness will you lift your heart and cry Hosanna, asking for the saving grace of Jesus to pour out into your life? And as you do, will you allow your heart to feel the great joy and hope of salvation that Jesus brings to all who believe? Hosanna in the highest. Blessed be the name of the Lord who saves us!

by Jeannie Blocher, Fort Wayne, IN

Jeannie Blocher head shot Jeannie and her husband Roy Blocher founded Body & Soul^® in 1981 and she currently serves as the Director of Spiritual Impact, leading a dedicated team of Instructors in creating spiritual resources for the ministry. Jeannie loves spending time with family, which now includes 9 grandchildren, spread over three states. She loves encouraging both family and Body & Soul® friends to grow in faith & fitness!