A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining Forth – LSB 430
Palm Sunday (1 and 3 year)
Jesus Christ is our Passover Lamb, by whose blood we are saved from the condemnation that accompanies sin (Exodus 12). The wrath of God over sin has passed over us because Jesus died in our place and marked us with his own blood. He is the ever-patient suffering servant (Isaiah 53) who meekly went to the cross to free children of Adam. Though he is rich in life, yet he willingly humbled himself unto death (Philippians 2:5–11). He who created the earth and all in it was laid with the grave to redeem creation (Genesis 1; 3:15–18; John 1:1–3; Romans 8:20-21). Because Christ bore the guilt of sinners, those who believe in him will see him in glory in his kingdom. The robes of all saints are washed in the blood of this Lamb (Revelation 7:14). In that blest place the bride of Christ will dwell forever with her groom in perfect joy (Revelation 19:1–7).
All Glory, Laud, and Honor – LSB 442
Palm Sunday – Processional
Theodulf of Orleans’s hymn for Palm Sunday reflects the Gospel texts of the event (Matthew 21:1–9; Mark 11:1–11; Luke 19:29–40; John 12:12–16). Whereas Herod thought of himself as the king of Israel, Jesus Christ (Son of David) actually is the King of Israel — and over all things. Since he came to Jerusalem in order to bring his life to fulfillment on the cross, it is meet, right, and salutary that all Christians bring him all praise. The main word of that praise is ‘Hosanna’, which means ‘Save now’! He has saved us and, by his word and sacraments, continues to save sinners and bring them into his church. As the multitudes and the angels praised him, so it is fit that every generation sing his praise. At the Divine Service heaven and earth join together to praise the holy Lord. Blessed is he who hears our prayers and feeds us his own body and blood. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!
Rev. Thomas E. Lock serves as Kantor/Assistant Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Denver, Colorado.