Hosanna!

Hosanna!

Have you ever prayed for something, only to get something COMPLETELY DIFFERENT than what you expected? That’s exactly what happened in John 12:12-19. The crowds were excitedly shouting “Hosanna!” which literally means “Save us now!” Yet, these people had specific expectations. They wanted Jesus to overthrow Rome, to be their political savior. They were waving palm branches—symbols of victory and nationalism—essentially saying, “Come be our conquering king!” But here’s the truth: Jesus had a much bigger plan than they could imagine. While they were thinking of temporary political freedom, Jesus was orchestrating eternal spiritual liberation. While they wanted Him to take over a city, He was preparing to redeem the entire world! Don’t miss this crucial detail: Jesus deliberately chose to ride in on a young donkey. Not a warhorse. Not with an army. Why? Because this King operates differently than any earthly ruler. Zechariah had prophesied it hundreds of years earlier—God keeps His promises with remarkable precision! Here’s what’s crazy: Even the disciples didn’t get it! John tells us they only understood the significance after Jesus was glorified through His death and resurrection. Can I be honest with you? We often do the same thing. We have our own expectations of how God should work, what He should do, and when He should do it. But God’s ways are higher. His plans are better. His timeline is perfect. This Sunday, let’s not just wave branches—let’s surrender our expectations. The same crowds that shouted “Hosanna!” on Sunday were yelling “Crucify Him!” by Friday. What a heartbreaking plot twist! But without that cruel cross, there would be no empty tomb. So what’s your “Hosanna” today? Where do you need God to break through and save? Bring it to Him—but be prepared for Him to answer in ways far beyond what you could ask or imagine!

Caleb McCaughan, Pulpit Minister – Hosanna: Easter 2025

Dinner Table Conversations: 

Adult & Teen Table Talk: 

• Jesus deliberately fulfilled prophecy by riding a donkey instead of a warhorse. How does this choice reveal the unexpected nature of God’s kingdom? Where else do we see this “upside-down” kingdom in Jesus’ ministry?
• John 12:16 mentions that the disciples didn’t understand these events until after Jesus was glorified. Share a time when you only recognized God’s work in your life in retrospect. What did you learn?

Little Learners’ Table Talk: 

• “Hosanna” means “save us now.” What are some ways Jesus helps and saves people? What would you ask Jesus to help you with?
• Jesus knew what would happen later that week (that He would die on the cross), but He still went to Jerusalem. When have you been brave even though you were scared?