One day as Jesus reached a town outside Jerusalem,
He sent his friends to find a colt and bring it back to him.
He said, "If any ask of you, 'What are you doing?' — say,
'The Lord is near and needs the colt!' They'll send you on your way."

They soon returned and showed the Lord the colt that they had found.
They spread their cloaks upon its back and also on the ground.
When Jesus rode that humble beast, the crowds began to sing:
"He comes to us in God's own name; how blessed is the king!"

"How blest is he!" the crowds proclaimed — yet did they understand?
For other kings had entered there with troops at their command.
This king, Messiah, did not come with might and strength and sword;
No war horse but a peaceful colt was carrying our Lord.

May we who sing "Hosanna! Praise!" be mindful once again
That Jesus came to bring God's peace, and peace is found in him.
May we who follow Christ recall his gentle, humble way
And work to build a peaceful world to honor him today.