This week, I was reflecting on the lessons for this year’s Palm Sunday. The BCP calls it “The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday.” Often called Palm Sunday or Hosanna Sunday, it is a day of profound significance.
I referred to the lectionary, and I read Matthew 21:1-11 several times to better understand the story and its message, and how it relates to life today. The passage highlights Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, a moment recorded in all four Gospels. Matthew mentions both a donkey and a colt, while the other Gospels refer to a colt.
On this day, we traditionally process palm branches outside the church and then enter, singing songs and anthems that have been part of our worship for centuries. Jesus is Christ the King, the anointed one who came to save humanity from sin. Yet, he did not choose a grand entrance on a horse or in a chariot, nor did he arrive amid a throng of followers. Instead, he chose humility and meekness, demonstrating gentle strength and servant leadership.
I see donkey—or colt—is a humble, undervalued animal, yet strong and enduring, capable of navigating harsh terrains. Jesus’ choice reflects his gentle character, showing that the way of God’s kingdom is not through force or spectacle, but through humility and peace.
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowd cried out, “Hosanna,” derived from the Hebrew Hoshia na, meaning “Save us.” They shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” Their cries were not only a plea for deliverance from Roman rule but also a recognition of Jesus as the God-sent King and descendant of David, the promised redeemer of God’s people.
Hymn 156, Ride On, Ride On in Majesty! In our hymnal captures this sentiment is captured beautifully: “Ride on! Ride on in majesty! Hark! all the tribes Hosanna cry.” The waving of palm leaves symbolizes joy, victory, and life triumphing over death. Hosanna, then, is more than a word; it is an expression of praise, hope, and deep longing for salvation.
From Palm Sunday, I have learned the true meaning of servant leadership—attentively listening to the needs and concerns of our community. Just as Christ heard the cries of the people and responded with humble service, we too are called to follow His example. Like the donkey that carried Christ during the Triumphal Entry, we are invited to recognize Christ’s presence in our lives and become instruments of His love and service. We are called to stand with our community—not only in times of joy but also in moments of pain, struggle, and illness. Through this, I have come to understand the importance of being open-hearted, humble, and ready to serve others selflessly, reflecting Christ’s example in every action.
Romy