March 28, 2023

“All Glory, Laud and Honor”

This well-known Palm Sunday processional hymn, based on Psalm 24, Psalm 118, and the accounts of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, has been joyously sung for years.  Unlike many Medieval hymns, whose authorship is, at times, doubtful, the ascription of this hymn to Theodulf (760-821), bishop of Orleans in present day France from 798-817, is very secure.  The original Latin text was composed of 39 verses.  Strangely enough, the King of France saw this hymn as an attempt to take over his throne, and so, Theodulf was banished to a monastery between 817 until the time of his death, in 821 A.D.   The King, once he finally read the words to the hymn, ordered his release, but Theodulf had already left this earth to be with His Redeemer, his King. 
The hymn begins with an acclamation of praise to Jesus, who is both Redeemer and King.  As His redeemed bride, we now offer glory, laud, and honor to Him, embracing the eschatological hope of His glorious kingdom.  
Verse 1 shows Jesus as King who comes to Jerusalem in fulfillment of Psalm 24.  Verse 2 has the chorus of angels join with the Church in praise.  Verse 3 declares that as the Palm Sunday crowd adorned the Lord’s procession with palms, we worship the King with “our praise and prayer and anthems”.   Verse 4 acknowledges where His pilgrimage ends, and ours, namely at a cross.     
The final verse is a prayer that Jesus would receive our prayers and praises as He received those of the throng.  “All glory, laud, and honor to You, Redeemer, King.”

Refrain: All glory, laud, and honor to You, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring.

You are the King of Israel and David’s royal Son,
Now in the Lord’s Name coming, our King and Blessed One. [Refrain]

LSB 442