Today we begin what has come to be known as Holy Week. About a quarter of the information we have about the life of Jesus here on earth has to do with the events of this week: His entry into Jerusalem, many of His parables, celebrating Passover with His disciples, the betrayal, the arrest, the trials, the beatings, the crucifixion and burial. All of this was part of the plan, the way He would pay for the sins of the world. We can remember all of this with a profound sense of awe and gratitude, and also with the joyful confidence that comes from knowing what happened on the third day. Jesus rose to conquer death not just for Himself, but for everyone who trusts in Him.

My devotional thoughts this week, just like the Sundays during Lent, will be guided by some of the great hymns of this season. I hope they will help you prepare to remember and rejoice as well.

Hosanna, loud hosanna, The little children sang;
Thro’ pillared court and Temple The lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, Who had blessed them, Close folded to His breast,
The children sang their praises, The simplest and the best.

 From Olivet they followed Mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving And chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels Rode on in lowly state
Nor scorned that little children Should on His bidding wait.

 “Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, The Lord of heav’n our King.
Oh, may we ever praise Him With heart and life and voice
And in His blissful presence Eternally rejoice!