Do you remember old movies of the Allied forces liberating Paris and the people dancing in the streets? Palm Sunday was a day like that; a day when thousands celebrated Jesus.

But for the local religious leaders it was an awful day. They were frightened and enraged by the popularity of Jesus. To them it was like a standing ovation for the enemy.

After hearing of his miracles, the crowds were wild to get a glimpse of Jesus. As he rode into Jerusalem they waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna, blessed is the king of Israel.” Did they understand everything that was going on? Not really. Even John, the disciple closest to Jesus, indicated that he didn’t really get it until after Easter. But that didn’t stop John and the others from celebrating Jesus – nor should it stop us!