The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” ... When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” (Matthew 21:9a, 10)

While living in Seoul, I remember a time when the city was so stirred up, it was literally on fire with enthusiasm. It was 2002, and South Korea was hosting the World Cup. Everyone was wearing red bandanas and shirts, enthusiastically supporting their country in the games. 

There was another time when my friend was riding in a public bus through a busy part of Seoul. Looking out the window, he could see hundreds of people busily walking around. He decided to have fun with the electric mood in the air and shouted out the window, “Dae-Han-Min-Guk” (translated as “The Great Korea”). It felt like a hundred people chanted the phrase back. It was incredible!

I imagine that was a similar feeling happening in Jerusalem. The people were stirred up because they were excitedly awaiting their King, the one who would save them from the tyranny of the Romans. There were crowds everywhere shouting out praises to Jesus such as, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” 

When Jesus was entering Jerusalem on a donkey, people were laying their coats and branches on the ground to pay homage to Jesus. Those who didn’t know Jesus started asking questions, curious to find out why He was so special. 

Although the people were confused about Jesus' true purpose, they were right to honor and praise Him as King. Jesus deserves our praise and worship. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. However, He came to save them (and us) from a much greater enemy than the Romans. He came to save us from sin, eternal death, and separation from God. 

So lay down your metaphorical coats and branches- whatever you feel shows honor and reverence to Jesus. Give Him the praise and glory for who He is and what he has done for us.

How can you show Jesus how awesome you think he is? We all have our own unique ways of sharing our excitement, gratitude, and love.  The method isn’t important, but you don’t want to let the Easter season pass you by without getting excited about what God has done and praising the King of the Universe!