We begin Holy Week with Jesus entering Jerusalem to shouts of "Hosanna!' Today we examine this cry of desperation for Jesus to save the people crushed under the boot of the Roman Empire, and contrast two visions of peace. On one hand, you have Jesus riding into town on a donkey, greeted with crowds waving palm branches and throwing their coats in the road, while simultaneously across town Pilate's imperial procession rides in with hundreds of armed soldiers and war horses flying the banners of a repressive regime. Empire always believes power and force are the way to peace, but Jesus lampoons this approach and offers an alternative vision of abundant life. Sadly, by the end of the week the people allow fear and acceptance of their place in society to once again take hold. But God will not give up on God's children.