One thousand years before Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Psalm 118 promised the arrival of a King who is the Messiah. Jesus fulfills the prophesy.

“Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Psalm 118:26).

Whenever we acclaim this, we are confessing anew Jesus to be King and Messiah.

Psalm 118 further prophesied that the future King and Messiah entering Jerusalem also is a Priest who will ascend to the altar to offer sacrifice [a priest offers sacrifice]. Of course, Jesus will not ascend to the Temple to offer animal sacrifice, but rather will offer Himself as Sacrifice for all upon the altar of the Cross.

Lord Jesus, it is not enough to accompany You in triumph, but we must follow You in Your Passion. Help us never to forget that it is on the Cross that You set us free.