A Song of Ascent

Beloved People of God,

One of the best questions anyone ever asked Jesus was, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” 

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, with great fanfare and acclaim, as the long-awaited Messiah of Israel, people crowded along the roadside. They raised up palm branches and laid their cloaks beneath the foal’s footfalls. In the gathering were children, singing and shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” These boys and girls were witness to the arrival of the Messiah!

We can hear the intense indignation and disdain as the religious leaders ask Jesus, “Do you hear what these kids are saying?!” The resounding answer is “Yes!” Entering the Temple courts, hearing the children’s repeating refrain, Jesus' heart swelled with the words of Psalm 8. In Israel’s song book, the eighth psalm is the first song of praise celebrating God’s glory over all the earth! As Jesus’ heard them worshiping, He saw the fulfillment of David’s song, as God established His stronghold through the praises of children (Psalm 8.2).

This Sunday we rejoice in Christ’s triumphal entry led by our children and youth. Come prepared to follow their reenactment of Zechariah’s prophesy. Be ready to sing with them as they lead us in song. Prepare your hearts to receive from God’s word in their pulpit reflection. In their witness we will find ourselves asking the same question, “Do you hear what these children are saying?!” but with a very different posture in heart because our answer will be, “Yes, and Amen!”

For His Name’s Sake,

Brett