There are several times during the Mass that I could lose myself. The Holy Holy is one of those times. I find myself approaching this prayer in two different moods. Sometimes, I’m rejoicing, swaying back and forth with a soft, gentle smile on my face. Sometimes I’m quiet, pensive and prayerful. Always, though, I find myself closing my eyes as if I’m shutting out all the distractions around me and focusing on each separate word of this powerful prayer.
The Priest and the congregation singing or saying aloud together conclude the Preface. Let’s examine the words of this prayer together. This prayer is called the Sanctus, Latin for Holy.
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
The first thing I notice is that Holy is repeated three times as to really emphasize the nature of God. It’s given to us from the Bible in Isaiah (Chapter 6:3) and Revelation (Chapter 4:8). In its repetition, I am reminded that I am truly in the presence of the Holy One. My prayer becomes united with the host of angels, and together we proclaim in praise that Heaven and earth are full of His glory. Here’s that word “full” again. I strive to see that glory throughout my day – sometimes I succeed, sometimes I falter – but I try, for my God is present. For me, it’s when I seek out His glory here on earth, I find joy. This first part on the Sanctus lifts my spirits every time I pray it – for in it, Heaven and Earth are united in song, in one voice proclaiming, Holy, Holy, Holy….
The prayer continues
Hosanna in the highest.
This cry of joy and petition is shouted and cried out to Jesus at his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. They cried to Jesus for deliverance as their Saviour as word of his miracles and teaching had been spread throughout the countryside before his arrival. Everyone raised their palm branches so their plea could be heard in heaven.
It then continues…
Blessed is he who comes in the name of Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
In the second part of this powerful prayer, God becomes tangible, reachable, and he descends from Heaven to earth through His Son, Jesus. We are reminded and acclaim that the Son of God, Jesus is also holy and deserving of our praise. Our acclamation rises to Heaven, but is rooted in our personal relationship with Jesus, in our daily journey here on earth. Jesus has come to us in the name of the Lord. Let’s rejoice to the highest heavens!
Now, as we conclude the Preface, we humbly take to our knees before our God who will become truly present before us. In these times, if we are not able to physically kneel, we can strive to find a posture that is one of reverence if we are able: stand, bow, and be humble before our God.
Please join me next Friday as we begin to look at first narrative part of Eucharistic Prayer Number 4.
God bless your day.