Abounding Grace: The Grace of the Law - Hosanna

This Sunday is referred to as Palm Sunday, a term taken from the final entry of Jesus to Jerusalem before his sacrificial death on Friday and resurrection on Easter morning. As Jesus enters, people from all walks of life lay palms and their cloaks on the road as he rides into the city. Jesus’ entrance is a declaration of himself as David’s great descendent. It also fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 when the king would ride in on a donkey, which is a symbol of peace.

For us, as we study of God’s law, this Sunday signals to us the salvation of God! As we have studied the law, it has informed us about the holiness of God for the law is rooted in his character. God’s law sets the standard and communicates His vision for humanity. When we compare what we experience in the world to God’s vision, we cry out, “God save us.” The law zeros in on mankind’s sinfulness, exposing our law-breaking behavior, thoughts, and heart. It strips us of any righteousness we might bank based on our performance. There just isn’t anything to merit God’s favor or avert his judgment. As Paul concludes, “none is righteous, no not one,” Romans 3:10. Left fully exposed by the law, we cry out, “God save us.” The law forces us to ask Paul’s question, “Who will deliver me from the body of this death?” (Romans 7:24) Then we see Jesus and again we cry out, “God save us.”

Before the Spirit came into our lives, we were dead in our trespasses and sins children of God’s wrath, Ephesians 2:1. Now, alive in Christ, the law no longer condemns but teaches us the gospel, humbling us to live in the grace provided for us in Christ. “God save us,” remains our cry. Save us from the sin around us; save us from the sin within us; save us with all the benefits of Christ. Join us Sunday as we cry out in worship for God’s gracious salvation in Christ.