Hosanna!
Janne Grover, Council of Twelve Apostles
“Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” -Mark 11:9-10
It’s easy to be swept up in the joyful shouts of “Hosanna” this Palm Sunday. Our twenty-first century context allows us to celebrate because we know that the road of suffering we walk with Jesus during Passion Week leads to Easter joy and new life.
In the context of first-century Palestine the shouts of “Hosanna” were cries of hope. The people hoped Jesus would be the king for them that King David had been-a warrior king who would challenge and conquer the oppressive Roman Empire. Instead, Jesus challenged political and religious authorities with an entrance symbolizing humility and peace. He spoke truth to power by teaching and living an inclusive, peaceable kingdom-not by threatening violence and judgment.
It makes me wonder what my “Hosanna” stands for today? What is my cry for hope amid systems that oppress? How am I called to kingdom living that represents all the dimensions of Christ’s peace? It is easy to feel overwhelmed by conditions of human suffering. I am aware that at times I knowingly and unknowingly contribute to systems of injustice. I am also reminded that every act of kindness, every relationship nurtured, every responsible choice, every act of justice, every voice given to the voiceless, and every door of welcome flung wide is a bold “Hosanna!”
Jesus did not bring back a kingdom hoped for by the people; he ushered in a new kingdom. We are called to do the same! May our shouts of “Hosanna” this day lead us into actions of justice and peaceable-kingdom living as we step boldly into what can be.
Prayer Phrase
I surrender into your love.
Spiritual Practice
Centering Prayer
Set a timer for 20 minutes. (If that feels like too much at first, choose a time that will be comfortable for you as a starting place, committing to expand that time in future prayer.) Allow the rhythm of your breath to draw you deeper and deeper into silence. As you breathe, claim one sacred word (Christ, peace, grace, trust, etc.) emerging in you as an anchor to return you to the intention of your prayer when your thoughts begin to wander. Gently release the thoughts and images that come, making space for presence to the One who is with you here and now. Release, return, “be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:10b).
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
