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They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” (John 12:13-14)
Hosanna! It’s a fun word we get to say and sing each year on Palm Sunday. Back when I was a Bible Camp director, the word also meant something else – a sauna! Yes, the camp had a sauna down by the beach where someone had painted the word “ho-sauna” on it, and the name stuck. The “ho-sauna” was a favorite among many of the guests, both kids and adults.
This sauna was a place where people gathered relax, socialize, and even theologize! Many a faith conversation took place in the sauna as people lowered their emotional walls. They would often share what happening in their lives, what God was doing, or where God was leading them. Every time I hear or see the word hosanna, that’s what comes to my mind!
"Hosanna" comes from the Hebrew phrase "hoshiya na" (הוֹשִׁיעָהנָא), which translates to "Save, please!" or "Save us now!" It can be a cry of praise and adoration, particularly in the context of Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Some other scholars believe its Hebrew roots come from a different verb tense of “yasha” הוֹשַׁ֣ע which means to cause or to bring about salvation. In this tense, hosanna becomes a command to bring about or cause salvation.
Either way, it's a time to reflect on Jesus' humble yet regal arrival in Jerusalem and remember the events of the week leading to his crucifixion. Palm Sunday encourages us to welcome Jesus into our lives and follow him as our Lord and Savior. For through him, salvation comes!
As we walk through Holy Week, let’s keep singing “Hosanna!” Let’s remember how he gave his body and blood for you and me, for the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life. Let’s remember how Jesus died for us on a painful, lonely, miserable cross, taking the punishment for all of our sins. And on Easter morning, let’s celebrate His resurrection from the dead, where he was victorious over death and the grave. Let us put our faith in him, and receive this loving gift of grace and salvation in heaven forever.
Pastor Dan
ANNOUNCEMENTS
· Please join us after worship this Sunday for a delicious lunch in the Fellowship Hall.
· Add beauty to our Easter services with Lilies! Donate in memory of or in honor of someone special or a special occasion for $10.00 per plant. Fill out a form and put them in the offering boxes. Due this Sunday, April 13th.
· Join us this week for our special services, bring a friend or neighbor:
Maundy Thursday Worship - Thursday, April 17 at 6:00 p.m.
Good Friday Tenebrae Worship - Friday, April 18 at noon.
Easter Resurrection Worship - Sunday, April 20 at 10:00 a.m.,
Easter Egg Hunt follows for the children
· We are having Vacation Bible School on June 24-25-26 from 6:30-8:00 pm. We need volunteers - contact Kaitlyn Hallett to sign up. Registration for youth 1st to 5th grade (ages 6-12) will open at a later date.
· First Evangelical Church Council meets today after worship this Sunday.
· Thank you to the Sallenbach Family for the beautiful palms adorning our Sanctuary.
· Our condolences to the family and friends of Patrick Gilland as he joined the saints triumphant last Sunday night. Arrangements are pending.
