Hosanna!

The Passion according to St. John contains the triumphal entry of Jesus in the 12th chapter. Here is the King of kings, come to claim his throne. Yet he comes humbly, on an ass; his crown is of thorns, and his throne a cross. For this is how he redeems the world and brings his royal subjects unto himself. So it is right that the people of the Gospel, and we, cry "hosanna," for this is a song for royal coronation, which essentially means, "God save the king!" -- a cry to call for his victorious reign to begin, with confidence that it is already accomplished. So we take courage even in the evil day, that he is Lord and King, and shall surely save his people. Sermon for Thursday Vespers.