Prayer of praise on Palm Sunday
By Keri Eichberger
Bible Reading:
“They took the branches of their palms and went out to see him, yelling, “Hosanna!” “The one who is blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” “The blessing is the king of Israel!” – John 12:13
Read or listen to the following:
May 14th, 2005 shows the date of the biggest celebration that surrounds my life. It was the day I was standing at the altar. The Good Lord chose what I specifically chose for the earth forever, united as one, joy flooded our hearts, and we vowed to “our part until we die.” It was my wedding day. Following the ceremony, it may have been an easy reception for some, but for me it was the most extraordinary few hours I’ve ever known. Our close friends and family cheered in unison when the DJ announced us to the room as Mr and Mr. My new husband turned around the dance floor with a light of love in his eyes that I would never forget. Ah, joy. It is still my most precious celebration. And I love to browse and reflect on the good things about the day.
what about you? Think of a personal moment, a day, or a week of celebration that has been put aside or blessed as something or someone’s respect or recognition. Joy, excitement, and gratitude shine boldly, and praise to God now reflects and fills your heart. It was probably your wedding day too. Or the day the child was born. Perhaps a milestone birthday or anniversary, completion of school or career commitments, final cancer treatment, or family return. Do you think you created your most memorable celebratory moment?
In light of today’s Palm Sunday, our most respected memories turn pale as I consider my heart to be in the crowd and celebrate the welcome of Jesus’ Messiah. Think about that. The bystanders of Jerusalem on that sacred day were more than just celebrating the exciting new blessings and changes in their lives, as we witnessed. But they were celebrating a dramatic shift in events that changed from that fun day to everything that has eternal life. I can hardly put into words the overflowing, overwhelming joy that must have existed in everyone waiting to greet the new king.
Imagine it. A photo of you in the crowd spent your life believing that the long-awaited Messiah finally came to save your soul and all those you loved. Finally, they come to fulfill their forewarned prophecies. Finally, the light that the world had longed for was coming. The God of the Universe not only provides moments to celebrate, but also gives you a reason to celebrate every day forever. I can hardly guess that. But we should. We may be celebrating with the crowd, screaming “Hosanna” and “Best Hosanna” because the celebration has never been over.
As he begins to stay, the coming king’s celebration continues.
The most admired consideration of Palm Sunday is that you can still celebrate this enjoyable opportunity every day today. Jesus simply passed through the breeze and not easily passed. At the end of the week, after his death and resurrection, he rose to his feet to remain by us forever. I can’t imagine what’s right for celebrating!
We praise him today because he loves us unconditionally, and he lives faithful to us now. We praise him because he came, and for the cross, we will be with him forever. Praise God! Hosanna, today and every day!
Let’s pray:
Holy Lord Jesus, we praise you today and every day. It is from you that we celebrate in our lives. And we are so grateful for the joy you offer to this planet. But Lord, all blessings and celebrations pale in comparison to the joys we have, and you came to the world, lived among us, and died in our place for our sins for our sins. We rejoice in the joy of celebrating you and your immeasurable sacrifice every day. Remember your goodness, faithfulness, strength, and sacrificial love every time you breathe forever today and every day. You, Lord, forever, and Amen is blessed.
Photo Credit: ©istock/getty Images Plus/Kara Gebhardt
Keri Eichberger is a Kentucky girl who loves Jesus. She is married to her best friend Mike and has a full house with five children. After writing for years of online audiences, Keri was ordained through the Southeast Christian Church, bringing full-time ministry to life. She is the author who soars with those who conquered and overcome Win Over Forse: Conquer what You, and is passionate about sharing faith-filled encouragement through prayer writing. Connect with Keri on Keriechberger.com or on Instagram.
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