Hosanna, Loud Hosanna is the type of hymn I like to include on the Sunday before Easter. We don’t make a formal observation of Palm Sunday, but I think it’s helpful to acknowledge the historicity of the week leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection otherwise they could become dislocated as real events and simply become theoretical happenings in people’s minds.
A little speculative in invoking the little children, the hymn makes the lovely point that the humility of those who praised Jesus that day is reflective of Christ’s own humility as he receives their praise when he was worthy of so much more.
The tune, Ellacombe, makes a bright and interesting accompaniment for the lyrics.
The lyrics:
1
Hosanna, loud hosanna
the little children sang;
through pillared court and temple
the lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them,
close folded to his breast,
the children sang their praises,
the simplest and the best.
2
From Olivet they followed
mid an exultant crowd,
the victory palm branch waving,
and chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of earth and heaven
rode on in lowly state,
nor scorned that little children
should on his bidding wait.
3
“Hosanna in the highest!”
That ancient song we sing,
for Christ is our Redeemer,
the Lord of heaven, our King.
O may we ever praise him
with heart and life and voice,
and in his blissful presence
eternally rejoice.
Here’s a choir and instrumental version from a church congregation. Quite a lovely rendition. The instruments dominate the recording, but live I’m sure the voices would have balanced very well.
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