Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations.

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭42‬:‭1‬ NIV‬‬

750 years before Jesus’ birth, Isaiah knew.

One among hundreds of prophecies telling of the coming Messiah, this week we celebrate the triumphant entry into Jerusalem for what soon becomes his death and resurrection of eternal hope for all mankind.

Fulfilling prophecies from the Old Testament (e.g., Zechariah 9:9) it signifies the beginning of Holy Week with the waving of palm branches and shouting “Hosanna,” acknowledging Him as the Messiah and King.

Growing up Lutheran, our youth crafted hundreds of palm crosses worn by parishioners in remembrance of the day.

Today I’ll again make a few more to bless some close friends who never worn one before but have since obtained the privilege.

Hosanna in the highest!