First Lesson: Isaiah 50:4-9a

Theme: No comfort for the comforter

Exegetical Note
This "Third Servant Song" of Deutero-Isaiah is an interesting selection for Palm Sunday, for the insult and injury experienced by the prophet at the hands of a people who despise him and his message appears to contrast sharply with the acclamation received by Jesus on his "triumphal" entrance to Jerusalem. The aftermath of that entry, however, suggests that the contrast may be superficial.

Call to Worship
Leader: Hosanna to the one who comes in God’s name!
People: HOSANNA TO THE MESSIAH OF GOD!
Leader: May we receive him warmly and thankfully as a comforter sent from God!
People: AND LET US HONOR BOTH HIM AND THE GOD WHO SENT HIM! HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST!

Collect
Most comforting God, who have sent comforter…