Hosanna To The King! – John 12:12-19

So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” (John 12:13 ESV) As John’s narrative rolls on, Jesus is more and more embracing publicity. Previously, he had hidden himself for a time for his hour had not yet come. But after his anointing in Bethany, he made his way into Jerusalem for what Christians have historically called Holy Week. The first day of this earth-shattering week is Palm Sunday, which gets its title from the palm branches that the people waved as Jesus rode into the city. John tells us the crowds were very big, and they are excited. Many had heard of what happened to Lazarus, and they were ready to embrace Jesus as the Promised One, the Messiah, the King of Israel. When we read this passage, we cannot help but see the excitement, joy, and anticipation. In fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, these enthusiastic