The Lord has given the king a great victory over his enemies, and he has returned to the people of God assembled in worship to give thanks. The power and love of God combined to save him from death and defeat the enemy. This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous; this is the day…; save now (Hosanna); blessed is the king who comes in the power of the Lord.
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus is recounted in the same way, and with the same words, as this king who has returned from battle to give thanks for victory over death and the enemy. It is as if the victory has already taken place on the Sunday before the actual Friday battle. The Spirit of Christ has given advanced faith to the children and childlike followers of Jesus. The Victor was praised one full week ahead of the Proclamation on Easter. The scene does not appear like a victory celebration, but the eyes of faith see the power and love of God come together and settle on the man riding a donkey.
The same victory comes into our lives this day: God grant the faith to see, and sing “Hosanna” (Save now!)