"... so the multitudes said..."
One of the easiest ways to share the Gospel comes simply in the labeling of "Jesus" in any given situation. "This" is "that." "That is how Jesus works." "This is the prophet, Jesus, a Nazarene from Galilee."
Most people are very close to seeing Jesus. They are made in his image. All they need is someone to help them out a little. A little defining goes a long way.
In this story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey the multitudes are filled with joy. They are crying, "Hosanna!" - grownups and children alike! Their cries carry authority. Their proclamation carries integrity, and so they are heard and understood by the dwellers in Jerusalem.
But it wasn't just the words that spoke to them. Anyone can say words. It was something in the Heart of those proclaiming Christ in the their midst. When they cried their "Hosanna!" it was as if angels, and archangels, and all the company of heaven were proclaiming their praise through them as well - as if all Creation was backing their chorus of praise and adoration.
Such is the anointing power of a reflection united with its Image.
The heavenly beings were already in submission to the Throne. Their status in heaven shows that. But now the people get into the game. They too - howbeit through personal sacrifice - spiritually unite with Heaven in the Universal Proclamation. Earth and Heaven have become aligned, all intentionally humbled, bowed low, rejoicing before the One enthroned in the Parade of Glory.
When beings of Earth and Heaven get on the same page the Kingdom "snaps and sparkles" in wonderfully crisp ways - ways that are immediately understood by by believers and nonbelievers alike.
For us, the Doorway into this Holy Synchronization is sacrificial in nature. It comes in the laying down of our cloaks. To those living in that day a cloak was more than just a piece of fabric. It was a coat, a shelter from the sun, a blanket of warmth in the winter, a comfort for cuddling at bedtime. Their cloaks, laid on on the road before the King revealed an act of self-sacrifice, holy submission, and sold-out trust. It was a way of saying, "Have it all!" "You have my life." "All I have is yours and I lay it at your feet and worship you!"
As their cloaks hit the ground their hearts hit heaven. At that moment these followers of Jesus became one with all the Saints who had also given their all - their cloaks - to praise of his glorious Name. It was here, in this act of faith and worship, when God met them. Finally they had arrived and were able to praise him freely without care, echoing the Heaven Hosts who were also up there doing the same.
No wonder they were able to praise with shameless hearts! No wonder the chorus of heaven became their back up band! Their hearts became carefree and dripping with the joy-filled Integrity of Heaven. They were no longer bound and proclaimed with heaven and earth alike, "This is the One, this is Jesus of Nazareth!"
No wonder the people listened, really listened.
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