Palm Sunday

Mary’s Monday Musings to Quilt Encouragement

I’m posting this early, in order to visit with you before the joyful celebration of Palm Sunday

Palm Trees

            What do you think of when you think of palm trees? My first thought is sunny beaches, gentle waves, and the dream of relaxing in a warm tropical climate. In Bible times, however, palm branches, as well as other beautiful tree branches were used as a symbol of rejoicing when the Israelites celebrated the Feast of the Booths. Palm branches also were waved and thrown in the path of conquering heroes when they returned or when a powerful King arrived. Perhaps one or more of these traditions were behind the waving of Palm branches as well as throwing Palm branches on the path in front of Jesus when he entered Jerusalem. While Jesus walked the earth, many saw Him as a political figure who would free them from Rome. The revelation of His spiritual mission was an ongoing one. Understanding His spiritual purposes grew event by event, such as the discovery of his empty tomb, when some of His followers encountered him on the road to Emmaus, or listened to the wonder of Thomas who put his hand in the wounds of Jesus.

Whether or not we wave real Palm branches on Palm Sunday, it’s the perfect time to express our joy and amazement at the provision God made for our salvation. What a privilege to give full expression of our love and gratitude to our God and our King. Anytime we are in worship it’s powerful to remember that we are standing on the praises of generations before us as well as joining with contemporary believers around the world in the glorious honor of bowing our hearts to our magnificent Savior. How great a joy to worship our God out loud in public. Many around the world are not free to express their love with abandonment.  Let’s remember those under persecution in prayer and ramp up our praise in their stead this Easter.